Benue youth group raises alarm as over 210 cows are killed, stolen in Agatu

The Agatu Youth Development Initiative (AYDI) has decried the killing of a herder and the rustling of over 210 cows across several communities in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, warning that the incidents could jeopardize ongoing peace efforts in the region.

In a statement issued on Saturday, AYDI described the attackers as “enemies of Agatu” and perpetrators of violence seeking to destabilize the hard-earned peace established since October 2024. The group, led by its National President, Engr. Ngbede Edoh, and Woman Leader, Mrs. Rose Onuminya, alleged that the criminal acts were orchestrated by outsiders who are envious of the cooperation between Agatu indigenes and Fulani herders.

“We are constrained to issue this statement following verified reports of the killing of a young boy and the destruction and theft of over 210 cows in our communities,” the statement read. “These attacks are deliberate attempts by crisis merchants to reverse the peace strategy initiated by the executive chairman of Agatu LGA, Hon. (Amb) Melvin Ejeh, which fostered mutual respect and coexistence among settlers and herders.”

AYDI warned that if urgent action is not taken, the area could return to its dark past marked by bloodshed and reprisals. The group emphasized that the perpetrators do not represent the values of Agatu people and called on relevant authorities and stakeholders to act swiftly to prevent further violence.

“As a non-profit, transparent organisation, we affirm that these criminals are not true sons of Agatu,” the statement continued. “They are being sponsored by interests determined to destroy the relative peace our people have enjoyed since Hon. Ejeh assumed office. We urge the security agencies to investigate and bring all culprits to justice.”