Residents of Apa and Agatu LGAs in Benue State are facing inevitable hunger as attacks by Fulani herdsmen persist.
Reports indicate that the communities in these areas have been deserted due to the escalating kidnappings and killings, hindering the natives from returning to their land for farming as the rainy season approaches.
The relentless attacks by the herdsmen, who are well-armed, have been ongoing for 12 years in the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, predominantly impacting Agatu Local Government.
The violence has now spread to nearby areas, resulting in widespread destruction, killings, and displacement of thousands.
Communities like Olegomakwu, Onahe, and Ocholonya in Agatu, as well as Ikobi, Ijaha, and Ochumekwu in Apa, have been severely affected.
The herdsmen justify their actions with allegations of cattle rustling and opposition to anti-open grazing laws, but locals believe the attacks are a ploy to seize control of their lands.
Chief Godwin Ngbede Onah, the traditional ruler of Agatu land, expressed distress over the continuous atrocities and appealed for urgent intervention from security agencies to end the crisis.
He highlighted the grave impact on agriculture, with many farmers unable to cultivate their land, exacerbating hunger and hardships.
Moreover, Hon Yakubu Ochohepo Pencil, the Executive Chairman of Agatu LGA, condemned the ongoing violence and called for a significant military deployment to halt the genocide.
Former Chairman of Agatu LGA, Hon Adoyi Suleiman, emphasized the urgency of addressing the insecurity that has plagued the region.
He urged the government to resolve communal disputes and disunity, which have contributed to the vulnerability of the area to attacks.
Similarly, in Apa LGA, Hon Sunday Onehi and Hon Ameh Akoche decried the profound impact of the attacks, leading to displacement and food scarcity in the affected communities.
They called on the Federal Government to take decisive action to end the violence and enable the return of residents to resume farming activities.
Stakeholders like Hon. Prince Antenyi Antenyi echoed the collective plea for swift intervention to prevent further deterioration of the dire situation in Apa and Agatu LGAs.