BREAKING: Fulani Herdsmen given 48Hour-ultimatum to vacate Benue Community

The chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands in the area.

The directive was made known during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the council secretariat in Obagaji.

The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, Fulani community leaders, youth representatives, and security officials to address rising concerns over the activities of herders on farmlands as the planting season draws near.

Obochi Solomon, Chief Press Secretary to the Agatu LGA Chairman, disclosed that Ejeh stressed the importance of safeguarding farming activities in Agatu, as agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy.

He insisted that farmers must have free and secure access to their lands without hindrance.

While appreciating the existing peace in the area, Ejeh made it clear that uninterrupted farming operations would be treated as a priority.

“Our farmers must cultivate without disruption. We will do everything necessary to create a safe environment for them,” he declared.

According to the statement, the leader of the Fulani community, known as the Ado of the Fulani, requested a one-week grace period to allow the herders time to make relocation arrangements, a plea the council accepted.

The General Youth Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Oloche Silas, speaking on behalf of the youth, promised full support for a peaceful evacuation process and assured that no acts of violence would be tolerated.

Security agencies, including officials from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), commended the peaceful conduct of the meeting and pledged their support in ensuring the safe and orderly relocation of the herders.

Also speaking at the gathering, Chief John Agidani, who represented the Och’Agatu, praised the Council Chairman’s leadership and appealed to all parties to respect the agreement reached during the meeting.