Agatu Chairman Gives Fulani Herdsmen 48 Hours to Vacate Farmlands Ahead of Planting Season
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that in a move to safeguard the 2025 planting season, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands within the community.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the directive which was delivered during a stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the council secretariat in Obagaji, aims to prevent disruption to agricultural activities as farmers prepare for a critical season.
The meeting gathered traditional rulers, Fulani community leaders, youth representatives, and security officials to address mounting tensions over herders’ activities on farmlands.
Speaking through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Obochi Solomon, Ejeh underscored the importance of protecting agriculture, which he described as the backbone of Agatu's economy.
He stressed the need to ensure that farmers could access and cultivate their lands without fear or obstruction.
"Our farmers must cultivate without disruption. We will do everything necessary to create a safe environment for them," Ejeh declared.
During the meeting, the Ado of the Fulani community requested a one-week grace period to organize a peaceful withdrawal, a request the council agreed to honor. The extended timeline is seen as a diplomatic move to avoid escalating tensions.
In a show of solidarity, the General Youth Chairman of Agatu LGA, Mr. Oloche Silas, pledged on behalf of the youths to support the peaceful evacuation process and to avoid any form of violence.
Security officials, including representatives of the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), commended the peaceful approach adopted by the council and pledged full support to ensure a smooth and secure relocation process.
Chief John Agidani, representing the Och’Agatu, also praised the leadership of the Council Chairman, urging all parties to remain committed to the agreement to preserve the area’s hard-earned peace.
OTN News observes that the move comes as Benue State, long affected by farmer-herder conflicts, intensifies efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and prioritize food security.
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