Fulani herders have obtained a 48-hour final pass atum to evacuate the Benue community.
Nigeria News Nalin James Melvin Ejeh, the president of the Agato local government in Benue State, has reportedly issued a 48-hour final atum to Fulani Herdsen to evacuate all farmland.
The directive was issued by EJEH at a stakeholder meeting held by the Obagaj City Council Secretariat on Saturday, April 26, 2025.
The meeting brought together traditional rulers, Fulani community leaders, youth representatives and security officials to address the increasing focus on herders’ activities in farmland as the seed season approaches.
Obochi Solomon, chief press secretary of Agatu LGA president, quoted EJEH, highlighting the need for conservation of agricultural activities in Agatu before the critical planting season.
He pointed out that agriculture is the backbone of the local economy and farmers must be able to enter their own land without fear or obstacles.
EJEH praised the relative peace currently enjoyed in the region through a statement, but stressed that ensuring uninterrupted agricultural activities is a top priority.
“Our farmers must farm without damage. We will do everything we can to create a safe environment for them,” he said.
The statement further stated that during the meeting, Fulani’s ADO requested a week-long grace period to prepare herders for relocation, a request approved by the Council.
CPS added that Mr. Oloche Silas, General Youth Chairman of Agatu LGA, committed on behalf of Agatu youth to support the peaceful evacuation process and to avoid any form of violence.
The security officials, including representatives of the Nigerian police force and representatives of the State Department DSS, were cited to praise the peaceful way of handling the matter and promised to provide necessary support during the relocation.
The statement said that John Agidani, the chief who was also representing Och’Agatu, was also at the meeting.
He praised the leadership of the Council President and urged all parties to comply with the agreement.
