Tension mount in Benue community as influx of armed herders sparks fear

Residents of Tombo Ward in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State are on edge following the sudden arrival of large numbers of herders reportedly grazing cattle across the area without approval from local authorities.

Community members say the situation has become more alarming amid allegations that many of the herders are openly wielding sophisticated firearms, heightening fears of possible violence.

IDOMA VOICE gathered that local leaders, worried by what they describe as the unlawful occupation of their ancestral lands, have lodged formal petitions to relevant government and security agencies.

One of the petitions, submitted by the Gaambetiev Local Government Workers Forum and signed by its president, Jeyol Hilenen, noted that “there is rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo council ward.”

The petition, circulated to all security formations in Logo LGA, further alleged that “the herders are carrying out destruction of farm lands as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities.”

Detailing the concerns, the petition stated:

“I write to formally bring to your attention the recent and rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area, particularly within the communities of Anyibe, Azege (Mbaya community), and the Abena Hill.

“Community members have reported the following developments: Ongoing destruction of farmlands in Azege (Mbaya Community) as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities; obstruction of fishing activities in Anyibe, affecting local streams and waterways; prevention of access to fish ponds around Abena Hill located North-East of Anyibe which has disrupted the livelihood of residents.”

The group also warned that “the presence and conduct of armed herders have raised serious fear of potential danger based on previous experiences in the area.”

According to the petition, the growing tension threatens the livelihoods of villagers who depend on farming and fishing for survival, stressing that urgent intervention is needed to avert further damage, economic losses, or a breakdown of peace.

The petitioners urged authorities to immediately deploy security operatives to assess the situation, evacuate herders operating without authorization, and restore stability in the affected communities.