The paramount ruler of the Idoma Nation, His Royal Majesty Agaba’Idu Elaigwu Odogbo, has ordered all armed herdsmen to vacate Idoma land with immediate effect.
This directive formed the core of a communique released after an emergency meeting of the Idoma Area Traditional Council and local government chairmen held at the Och’Idoma’s Palace in Otukpo on Wednesday.
The meeting was convened in response to escalating insecurity, including recent killings allegedly carried out by armed Fulani herdsmen in the region.
In the communique signed by the council, the monarch and traditional leaders expressed deep concern over what they described as “heinous acts of violence,”;; mourning the loss of lives and calling for swift government action.
“All armed herdsmen are to be persuaded and directed to leave Idoma land immediately to prevent further conflicts and senseless killings of Idoma sons and daughters,”;; the council stated.
The traditional rulers called on the Benue State Government to engage with herder groups to ensure that farmlands are vacated to enable farming activities to resume without fear or intimidation.
The council also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious movements and activities in their communities.
