Military Intervention Prevents Farmer-Herder Clash in Benue
Troops from the Nigerian Army have successfully arrested two herders accused of trespassing on farmlands and destroying crops in Makurdi, Benue State. The incident occurred during a routine patrol aimed at protecting farmers during the critical harvest season.
Operation WHIRL STROKE's Farmland Protection Success
According to a statement released on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, by Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu, spokesperson for the HQ JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, the arrest took place during regular farmland protection duties. The military personnel intercepted the suspects after they allegedly led their cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, resulting in significant crop damage.
The statement elaborated that the incident occurred on November 20, 2025, when OPWS troops deployed at Zongo Akiki were conducting their farm protection patrol. The vigilant troops quickly responded to the situation, preventing further destruction of crops and a potential violent confrontation between the herders and affected farmers.
Military Leadership Commends Professionalism
Major General Moses Gara, the Force Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, praised the troops for their professional handling of the situation. He emphasized the importance of citizens refraining from taking the law into their own hands when dealing with disputes or misunderstandings.
The Force Commander strongly cautioned that violence or reprisal attacks only serve to escalate tensions and endanger peaceful coexistence in communities. He reiterated the necessity for herders to obey the law and avoid criminal behaviors that threaten public order and security.
Major General Gara reaffirmed Operation WHIRL STROKE's dedication to safeguarding farmlands across the region. The operation remains committed to creating a secure environment where all legitimate enterprises can thrive without fear of destruction or conflict.
The two arrested herders remain in military custody awaiting further investigation and subsequent legal proceedings. This intervention comes at a crucial time when farmers are harvesting their crops, highlighting the military's role in maintaining food security in the region.
