Chairman of Agatu Local Council, James Ejeh, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands in the area.
The directive, given during a stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the council secretariat in Obagaji, aims to safeguard farming activities ahead of the planting season.
The meeting gathered traditional rulers, Fulani community leaders, youth representatives, and security officials to address the rising concerns over herders’ presence on farmland.
Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Obochi Solomon, stated that Ejeh emphasised agriculture as the backbone of Agatu’s economy and stressed the need for farmers to access their lands without obstruction.
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While commending the relative peace enjoyed in the area, Ejeh maintained that uninterrupted farming must remain a top priority.
He said, “Our farmers must cultivate without disruption. We will do everything necessary to create a safe environment for them.”
During the session, the Ado of the Fulani requested a one-week grace period for relocation, which was granted by the council. The General Youth Chairman of Agatu, Oloche Silas, pledged that Agatu youths would support a peaceful evacuation and avoid violence.
State security officials praised the peaceful resolution and promised to assist in the relocation process. Chief John Agidani, representing the Och’Agatu, also lauded the Council Chairman’s leadership and urged compliance with the agreement.
Meanwhile, the Evangelical Church Winning All, ECWA, has raised concerns over escalating violence in Kaduna and Plateau states.
At a press conference in Jos, ECWA General Secretary, Rev Ayuba Asheshe, disclosed that over N300 million ransom payments had been paid, with more than 50 members still held captive.
In Kaduna’s Kauru Local Council, more than 20 lives have been lost and over 100 individuals abducted. Similarly, attacks in Plateau’s Hurti Village and Bassa communities have resulted in over 90 deaths and widespread property destruction.
Asheshe called for urgent and coordinated efforts from all levels of government to end the violence and protect vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
Theguardian.ng
