Amid ongoing violence in Benue State's southern senatorial district, the Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC) has ordered all herders to vacate farmlands in the zone to allow local farmers to begin cultivation without fear or threats.
The decision was made during an emergency meeting held in Otukpo and presided over by the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty Dr. John Odogbo, following a series of brutal attacks by suspected armed herders that have claimed numerous lives across the region.
This resolution comes on the heels of a similar order issued by the Tiv Area Traditional Council (TATC), reflecting growing concerns over worsening insecurity tied to the activities of herders in the state.
The IATC, in a statement signed by Council Secretary Uloko Adegbe, expressed deep sorrow over the killings, describing them as heinous and unacceptable. The Council commended the government’s efforts so far but called for “more strategic actions and political will” to secure the region.
“It is therefore unanimously agreed that the state government should discuss and prevail on Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands to enable farmers to resume their agricultural activities without threat or intimidation,” the statement read.
“All armed herders must be persuaded and directed to leave the area immediately to prevent further conflicts.”
The Council urged residents to remain vigilant, work closely with security agencies, and report suspicious activities to help preserve peace. It also called for increased security patrols, deployment of more personnel to vulnerable communities, and conflict resolution training to prevent future violence.
The traditional rulers also reaffirmed the validity of the state’s Open Grazing Prohibition Law, calling on security agencies to arrest and prosecute violators, “no matter how high or low they may be, to instill sanity in the state.”
Local Government Council Chairmen in Idoma land were tasked with ensuring strict compliance with the directives, while the Federal and State Governments were urged to show political will in implementing the resolutions and reinforcing security in Benue State.
