Fulani herders het 48-hour deadline to vacate farmlands in Benue LGA

Agatu LGA Chairman in Benue, James Ejeh, has given Fulani herdsmen 48 hours to vacate farmland, ensuring uninterrupted farming activities ahead of the planting season.

The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, has given Fulani herdsmen a 48-hour deadline to vacate all farmlands.

Ejeh made this announcement during a stakeholders’ meeting held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the council secretariat in Obagaji.

The meeting brought together traditional rulers, Fulani representatives, youth leaders, and security officers to address rising concerns over herders encroaching on farms, especially as the planting season approaches.

According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Agatu LGA Chairman, Obochi Solomon, Ejeh stressed the importance of protecting farming activities in the area. He noted that farming is the backbone of Agatu’s economy and that farmers must have free access to their lands.

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

While he praised the existing peace in the region, he warned that it must not be disturbed, particularly at a critical time when farmers need to plant their crops.

During the meeting, the Ado of the Fulani community pleaded for a one-week grace period to allow herders to organize their movement. The council granted the request to ensure a peaceful relocation.

Meanwhile, the General Youth Chairman of Agatu LGA, Oloche Silas, pledged that the youth would fully support a non-violent evacuation. He promised that they would avoid any acts that could spark violence.

Security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), commended the peaceful dialogue. They also assured that they would assist in maintaining order during the herders’ exit.

Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, Chief John Agidani, who represented the Och’Agatu, praised the Council Chairman’s leadership and urged all sides to respect the decisions made at the meeting.