Following military airstrikes that targeted terror hideouts in Sokoto state, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, on Friday raised concerns over the infiltration of fleeing terrorists from Sokoto State into Benue State.
According to Ejeh, the security situation in Agatu has rapidly deteriorated, with armed terrorists reportedly escaping from Sokoto State to seek refuge in surrounding regions. The terror groups have since launched violent attacks in Agatu, heightening fears and uncertainty among the local population.
In a statement released in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, Ejeh expressed his alarm over the increasing attacks, which he believes are linked to military airstrikes that targeted terrorist locations in Sokoto in December.
Ejeh said, “We firmly believe that the violent attacks in Agatu are a direct result of the military airstrikes in Sokoto. These armed elements, fleeing from neighbouring areas, have infiltrated our communities and unleashed unprecedented terror on innocent and defenceless residents.”
The violent attacks have led to the deaths of numerous residents, widespread injuries, reported cases of rape, and the destruction of homes and farmlands. Ejeh revealed that the attacks have forced hundreds of people to flee their homes, creating a massive humanitarian crisis.
“These attacks have resulted in the brutal killing of our people, widespread injuries, reported cases of rape, the destruction of homes and farmlands, and the displacement of hundreds of residents who are now living in fear and uncertainty,” he added.
As the violence escalates, Ejeh announced the immediate revocation of the 2017 agreement that granted herders access to Adepati Island for grazing purposes. He stated that the agreement, initially meant to foster peaceful coexistence, had instead led to negative consequences for the Agatu people.
He said, “In view of the persistent violations and escalating violence, I hereby announce the immediate revocation of the 2017 agreement that granted herdsmen access to Adepati Island for grazing. That agreement was done under the guise of promoting peaceful coexistence, but at the expense of the Agatu people.”
Ejeh made it clear that no armed herders would be allowed on Agatu land, stating that Agatu remains an agrarian society, and protecting farmlands is crucial for the community’s food security and economic well-being.
He stated, “Let it be clearly stated that no portion of the Agatu land belongs to herders under any guise. All armed herders are hereby ordered to vacate Agatu land with immediate effect.”
