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By Tracy Moses
Disturbed by the rising wave of killings and violence linked to herdsmen attacks in communities across Benue-South Senatorial District, the Idoma Area Traditional Council (IATC) has urged the government and relevant institutions to prioritize the enactment and enforcement of laws aimed at curbing the illegal possession of firearms and other criminal activities.
The council also advocated for stronger legal measures to prevent unauthorized land use, emphasizing the need for strict prosecution of violators. It reminded the public that the Benue State Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of 2017, also known as the Anti-Open Grazing Law, remains active and enforceable.
In a communiqué issued at the end of an emergency meeting held at the palace of the Och’Idoma in Otukpo, Benue State, and signed by IATC Secretary, Adegbe Uloko Sundaeh, the traditional rulers and Local Government Council Chairmen of the Idoma nation called on law enforcement agents to ensure the arrest and prosecution of all violators of the state’s anti-open grazing legislation.
“Our people can no longer live in fear,” said Chief Adegbe Uloko Sundaeh. “We are calling on the government and the security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. The lives of our people must matter.”
The communiqué, made available to Pointblanknews.com, focused on issues of security, land management, and peacebuilding within Idoma land. The council called for the deployment of additional security forces to high-risk areas to enhance safety and prevent further violence.
“We are deeply pained by the brutal attacks that led to the loss of innocent lives in Idoma land, carried out by armed herdsmen,” the statement read. “We call on the state government to take immediate steps to engage Fulani herdsmen and ensure they vacate all farmlands, allowing farmers to return to their agricultural activities free from fear and harassment.”
“We can no longer accept the presence of armed herders on our ancestral lands,” said the Och’Idoma, HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John. “Our people are farmers, and farming is impossible under the barrel of a gun.”
The council recommended an increase in patrols, the deployment of more security personnel, and the implementation of conflict resolution initiatives to forestall future unrest.
They stressed the need for strict enforcement of laws against illegal possession of arms, criminal acts, and land encroachments, warning that violators, regardless of status, must face justice to maintain order and stability.
“The Benue State 2017 Anti-Open Grazing Law remains in effect,” emphasized Chief Uloko. “Law enforcement officials must ensure its full enforcement. Nobody is above the law.”
The IATC expressed gratitude to the Benue State Government and security agencies for their ongoing efforts to address security challenges in the region, noting that such actions reflect genuine concern for the safety of the people.
“We commend the bravery of our men and women in uniform,” said Hon. Anthony Enokela, Chairman of Otukpo LGA. “Some of them have paid the supreme price, and we honor their sacrifice.”
The council urged authorities to provide trauma support, rehabilitation, and psychosocial services to communities and individuals affected by violence and displacement, in collaboration with humanitarian agencies.
Encouraging vigilance and collective responsibility, the council appealed to all residents and stakeholders to work closely with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities.
“This is not the time for silence,” warned Elder John Abutu of the council. “If you see something, say something. The safety of our communities depends on all of us.”
On land and resource management, the council urged policymakers to revisit existing land regulations to ensure fair access and the sustainable use of natural resources for the benefit of both farmers and pastoralists.
Finally, the IATC conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of victims of recent attacks.
“Our hearts bleed for the innocent lives lost,” said the Och’Idoma. “May their souls rest in peace, and may their deaths not be in vain.”