BREAKING: ‘Fulani must go’ protest hits Agatu ahead of farming season

Residents of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State staged a protest on Monday in Obagaji, the council headquarters, calling for the removal of Fulani herdsmen from their communities ahead of the farming season.

The demonstrators, carrying placards and chanting “Fulani must go,” marched to the local government secretariat to express their grievances.

They said the approaching rainy season requires them to start planting, warning that the presence of herders and their cattle could destroy crops and spark clashes.

The protesters insisted that herders vacate farmlands to ensure a peaceful and productive farming season.

Confirming the development, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, said he had engaged with the protesters and community elders.

“I have spoken with the protesting youths and also met with the elders. Measures will be taken to address the situation,” he said.

Ejeh noted that certain security strategies could not be disclosed publicly. “Security issues and actions are not things to be discussed in the public,” he added.

He assured residents that efforts were ongoing to maintain peace and prevent any crisis in the area.

“I am happy that the rate of herders’ attacks has reduced in the local government, and we will continue to do everything possible to avoid any chaotic incident,” he said.