The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon James Melvin Ejeh, on Wednesday led a delegation of Agatu stakeholders to a crucial meeting with top military commanders in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.
The meeting, held at the headquarters of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), focused on tackling the resurgence of armed herdsmen attacks in Agatu communities.
Military commanders assured the visiting delegation of a renewed and sustained offensive to flush out criminal elements and restore normalcy.
Leading the military response were the Force Commander of OPWS, Major General Moses Gara, and the Commander of the 401 Special Forces Battalion, Colonel Bukuye. Both officers reaffirmed the military’s readiness to intensify operations in the troubled areas.
The high-level delegation included prominent Agatu sons and stakeholders: Col. I. Odagbali (Rtd), President of the Agatu West Elders Forum; Mohammed Audu, Vice President of the Forum; Navy Commodore Oduma (Rtd); Mr. Ebi Lucky, President of the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum; Dandy Adoba, Secretary of the Forum; and Umar Sheriff, President of the Agatu Youths Stakeholders Forum.
During the engagement, the stakeholders made a strong appeal for urgent military intervention, stressing the devastating impact of the attacks on local communities.
They emphasized the need to secure the area to allow displaced residents to return and begin rebuilding their lives.
Hon. Ejeh, who has been vocal about security in the area, stated firmly that Agatu would not be surrendered to violence. “Under my watch and that of Governor Hyacinth Alia, no inch of Agatu will be ceded to Fulani terrorists,” he declared.
He praised Governor Alia for his proactive approach to security and for consistently supporting efforts to protect the lives and property of the people.
