In his effort to prevent the brutal killing of indigenes of his area allegedly as a result of farmers / herders clash, the chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, Mr. James Melvin Ejeh, has given Fulani herdsmen a 48-hour ultimatum to leave all agricultural lands in the council.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, at the council secretariat in Obagaji, Mr Ejeh highlighted the importance of safeguarding agricultural activities in Agatu during the upcoming planting season.
The meeting which was attended by traditional leaders, representatives from the Fulani community, youth leaders, and security personnel discussed the increasing concerns regarding herders’ activities on farmland as the planting season nears.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Agatu LGA Chairman, Obochi Solomon, who endorsed the release containing the decisions said the Chairman noted that agriculture is essential to the local economy, adding that farmers should have unhindered access to their lands.
Mr Ejeh also acknowledged the current peace in the region and made it clear that maintaining uninterrupted farming activities is of utmost importance.
“Our farmers must cultivate without disruption. We will do everything necessary to create a safe environment for them,” he said.
During the meeting, the Ado of the Fulani was reported to have requested a one-week extension to allow the herders to prepare for their relocation, a request that the council approved.
In his speech, the General Youth Chairman of Agatu LGA, Oloche Silas, committed on behalf of the Agatu youth to support the peaceful evacuation process and to avoid any acts of violence.
In his contributions, representative of the Och’Agatu, Chief John Agidani, commended the leadership of the Council Chairman for the meeting and urged all parties to adhere to the agreement.
According to the statement, Security personnel, including members of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), promised to offer necessary assistance during the relocation and commended the convivial atmosphere.
