In response to escalating violence and insecurity attributed to armed herders, the Traditional Council of Gwer West Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State has issued a directive for herders to vacate all farmlands within the region. This decision was made during an extraordinary expanded sitting held in Naka, the LGA headquarters, where the council condemned the activities of marauding herders accused of attacking communities, committing acts of murder and rape, and destroying homes and farms across all 15 council wards.
The council emphasized that no individual is permitted to negotiate land matters with herders or make any agreements on behalf of the people of Gwer West. Violators of this directive will be handed over to law enforcement agencies.
In a related development, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, James Melvin Ejeh, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands in the area. This directive aims to ensure uninterrupted farming activities ahead of the planting season. During a stakeholders’ meeting, a one-week grace period was granted to the herders to facilitate a peaceful relocation.
These actions reflect a broader initiative by the Benue State government to enforce the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of 2017. The state has reaffirmed its commitment to this law, issuing a 14-day ultimatum to herders violating the anti-open grazing regulations to cease such activities or face legal consequences.
The directives from both traditional and governmental authorities underscore the urgent need to address the security challenges posed by armed herders in Benue State, aiming to protect lives, properties, and the livelihoods of farming communities.
