The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, Melvin Ejeh, has issued a direct order for all herders to immediately leave Agatu land. This decisive action comes as a response to a series of renewed violent attacks that have resulted in deaths, injuries, and mass displacement of local residents.
Immediate Vacation Order and Pact Revocation
In a strong statement released from Makurdi, Chairman Ejeh declared that all armed herders must vacate Agatu territory with immediate effect. He simultaneously announced the revocation of a 2017 agreement that had granted herders access to Adepati Island for grazing purposes. Ejeh declared this past deal "null and void and of no effect whatsoever."
He criticized the old pact, stating it was never implemented in good faith. "It was done under the guise of promoting peaceful coexistence, but at the expense of the Agatu people," Ejeh explained, asserting that the agreement ultimately endangered the local population instead of protecting them.
Unprecedented Terror and Humanitarian Crisis
The chairman linked the latest wave of violence to armed herders who allegedly infiltrated Agatu communities following recent military airstrikes in neighbouring areas, particularly around the Sokoko axis. According to his account, these fleeing groups unleashed what he described as "unprecedented terror" on innocent civilians.
The brutal attacks have led to:
- Multiple confirmed deaths and serious injuries.
- Reported cases of rape.
- Widespread destruction of homes and farmlands.
- The displacement of hundreds now living in dire conditions.
Ejeh framed the situation as both a severe security and a growing humanitarian crisis. "Our people are being hunted on their ancestral land without provocation, and this cannot be allowed to continue," he condemned.
Appeal for Security and Firm Stance on Dialogue
Highlighting Agatu's status as an agrarian community, the chairman stressed the critical need to protect farmlands to ensure food security and livelihoods. He made an urgent appeal to the Federal Government and security agencies to reinforce military and police deployments, noting that existing arrangements are insufficient to contain the escalating violence.
Ejeh commended Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, for his peace efforts and praised ongoing joint security operations involving forces like Operation Whirl Stroke, the police, DSS, and NSCDC. He also disclosed that several suspects have been arrested in connection with the violence, with investigations ongoing.
The chairman concluded with an unequivocal position: "The position of the Agatu people is unequivocal, at this time, no herder is welcome on Agatu land." He stated that any future dialogue would require broad consultation through legitimate channels. While urging residents to remain calm and law-abiding, he warned against taking the law into their own hands as security works to stabilize the area.
