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 his locality, following military airstrikes that targeted terror hideouts in the 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.”
The chairman called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to deploy additional military and police forces in Agatu to stem the tide of attacks.
He emphasised that the current security arrangements were inadequate and needed to be strengthened to curb the escalating violence.
Ejeh commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his commitment to restoring peace and security across the state. He also praised the efforts of the Commander and troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, as well as other security agencies, for their decisive actions to rid the council of criminality.
“Security agencies have already arrested some relevant suspects and are currently investigating them. No individual found aiding or abetting insecurity in Agatu will be shielded or granted undue leniency,” Ejeh assured.
The chairman concluded by reiterating that no herder would be welcomed back onto Agatu land without thorough consultations with the Agatu Traditional Council and other critical stakeholders. Any future engagement would only take place through lawful and official channels.