Tensions are rising in Anyimbe and Awashuwa, two settlements in Benue State’s Ayilamo district, as residents express growing fears over the massive influx of herdsmen and their cattle.
Local farmers, whose livelihoods depend on their farmland, are particularly alarmed, worried that the continuing presence of the herders could destroy their crops and pose a security threat to the region.
In recent weeks, large numbers of herders from neighboring Nasarawa State have reportedly crossed into the communities, sparking fears of escalating conflict.
Farmers are concerned that the herds of cattle could wreak havoc on their cultivated lands, threatening their year-round sustenance and income.
Shim Akur, a farmer from the Awashuwa community, described the situation as increasingly precarious.
He emphasized the severe threat posed by the large herds of cattle, which are already encroaching upon farmland that locals depend on for their livelihoods.
“We can’t just stand by and allow the cattle to destroy the crops we’ve invested so much time and money into. These herdsmen are coming from Nasarawa, and their actions are a real cause for concern,” Akur explained.
He further pointed out that the ongoing encroachment could lead to violent confrontations.
“If we attempt to remove them from our land ourselves, it could escalate into a more dangerous situation, with the herders retaliating. We are appealing for the authorities’ help before things spiral out of control,” he said.
Meanwhile, reports from the Anyimbe community indicate that the herders are already wreaking havoc on farmlands, prompting alarm among residents. The local population, fearful of the devastating consequences of further destruction to their agricultural resources, has called for immediate intervention.
Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Udeme Edet, for comment were unsuccessful.
