A group of farmers in Shimankar community, Shendam Local Government Area of Plateau State, have raised an alarm over the invasion of their farmlands by herdsmen.
The invasion occurred after violence erupted in the community, leaving many injured and houses burnt.
Tobias Kwanmen, one of the affected farmers, said, “After the violence recorded in the Shimankar community, the Fulani herdsmen entered many farms in various areas and destroyed their farms. Not one person. Not two. So many of them have their farms completely in ruins as I talk to you.”
Kwanmen described the destruction of his watermelon farm and the attack on a security guard who was employed to protect the farms.
“The herdsmen attacked him and cut off his hand when he was trying to protect the farm. The man was later evacuated to the hospital, but I don’t know whether he will survive the attack or not,” he said.
The Plateau State Police Command has assured the public of adequate security, confirming that four persons were injured during the violence.
The Command’s spokesman, Alabo Alfred, said, “The Commissioner of Police, Plateau State Command, Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, wishes to assure the good citizens and residents of Shimankar, Shendam LGA that the command has made all necessary deployments and emplaced measures to ensure the safety and security of all residents of Shimankar community.”
The Plateau State Government has also called for calm, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressing deep concern and displeasure over the breach of peace.
The government has assured the public that security agencies have been instructed to conduct a thorough investigation into the root causes of the skirmishes and to ensure that those responsible for any breach of public peace are held accountable.
