Farmers in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State have raised alarm over the continued destruction of their farmlands by Fulani herdsmen, calling for urgent government intervention to halt the crisis.
According to the distressed farmers, despite their hard work in cultivating and harvesting crops, herders have allowed their cattle to graze freely on their farms, leading to massive losses. Many now face an uncertain future as hectares of farmland have been destroyed, leaving them with little or no produce for sustenance and commercial purposes.
Speaking to reporters, some of the affected farmers lamented that their means of survival are under serious threat. They expressed frustration over the state government’s inaction, despite repeated appeals for intervention.
We wake up to find our crops trampled and eaten by cattle, one farmer said. “We have complained countless times, but nothing has been done. How are we supposed to feed our families when our farms are being destroyed daily?
Another farmer noted that the situation is worsening food insecurity in the region, as local food supplies dwindle due to the destruction.
The farmers are now making a fresh appeal to Governor Hyacinth Alia and other relevant authorities to take swift and decisive action to protect their farms and livelihoods.
We are begging Governor Alia to intervene before it is too late. If this continues, not only will our families suffer, but the entire agricultural economy of Agatu will be at risk, another farmer warned.
They also cautioned that if nothing is done, tensions could escalate, leading to further instability in the local government area.
The farmers are calling for increased security measures, stricter enforcement of anti-grazing laws, and immediate compensation for those who have suffered losses.
As the crisis deepens, residents are anxiously waiting to see if the government will respond to their pleas before the situation spirals further out of control.
