Connect with us

Security

Agatu Chairman Clarifies Alleged Herders’ Settlement Deal, Reaffirms Peace Agenda

Published

on

Agatu Chairman Denies Claims of Herders' Infiltration, Reaffirms Peace Efforts

The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, Hon. Melvin James Ejeh, has dismissed allegations suggesting a purported agreement for herders to occupy Agatu communities, describing the claims as false and malicious.

In a reaction to concerns raised by some citizens, Hon. Ejeh clarified that no such agreement exists. Instead, he emphasized his administration’s commitment to peace-building initiatives that prioritize the safety and welfare of Agatu residents.

“Our administration is focused on ensuring sustainable peace through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), a measure we adopted after realizing the futility of prolonged armed conflict,” Ejeh told our correspondent in a telephone conversation.

Advertisement

He revealed that upon his assumption of office in October 2024, fourteen Agatu communities were under siege, with displaced residents struggling to rebuild their lives. To address the crisis, his government facilitated critical stakeholder engagements, including Agatu leaders, Fulani representatives, and security officials, leading to a unanimous decision for herders occupying Agatu territories to vacate immediately.

“Herders have agreed to leave Agatu lands to allow displaced persons to return home, heal, and rebuild their lives. This decision underscores the commitment of all parties to peace and reconciliation,” he added.

Ejeh highlighted the significant progress achieved during meetings held in Loko, Nasarawa State, and Obagaji, Agatu LGA, where over 2,000 delegates from Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau, and Taraba States participated. The outcomes included the establishment of a 28-member peace committee with equal representation of herders and farmers to develop actionable strategies for coexistence.

Advertisement

“The Benue State Chairman of Miyetti Allah, Ardo Mohammed Risku, publicly tendered an unreserved apology for past atrocities committed by herders and appealed for forgiveness,” the council boss disclosed.

In a bold move to ensure accountability, both Agatu and Fulani leaders agreed to expose criminal elements within their communities. “For now, herders will remain outside Agatu until actionable resolutions are implemented by the joint committee,” Ejeh affirmed.

Describing the devastating toll of the conflict, he recounted years of displacement, loss of lives, and economic hardship faced by Agatu residents. “War has failed us for over a decade. This administration is determined to use ADR as a lasting solution to restore peace and prosperity to Agatu,” he concluded.

Advertisement

With these efforts, the Agatu chairman has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering resolve to secure a peaceful and thriving community for its people.

Continue Reading
Advertisement
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Headlines

Plateau Governor Sets Up Committee to Probe Two Decades of Attacks

Published

on

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has inaugurated a 10-member fact-finding committee tasked with uncovering the root causes of the persistent attacks plaguing communities across the state.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony on Tuesday in Jos, Governor Mutfwang charged the committee with conducting a comprehensive review of violent incidents from 2001 to date. “We thought that we should set up this high-powered fact-finding committee to look at the incessant attacks on our communities,” the governor stated.

According to Mutfwang, the committee is expected to perform an in-depth assessment of the recurring security breaches, determine the number of affected communities, and assess the extent of damage done over the years. “We want to understand the root causes and propose actionable recommendations for lasting peace, justice, and stability in the affected communities,” he said.

Advertisement

The committee’s mandate also includes establishing the number of casualties, identifying possible perpetrators and their motives, and uncovering potential routes used by bandits to access Plateau State. “Identify possible routes of bandits into the state and recommend measures to limit their access,” the governor added.

Chairman of the committee, retired Maj.-Gen. Rojas Nicholas, thanked the governor for the confidence reposed in the members. He pledged that the committee would approach its assignment with fairness and commitment. “We will do our best to produce a report that would befit its assignment,” Nicholas assured.

The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations in due course, with hopes that the report will provide a pathway to durable peace and security in the state.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Security

Eid-el-Fitri: FRSC deploys 1500 personnel in Delta

Published

on

Eid-el-Fitri: FRSC deploys 1500 personnel in Delta

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Delta State Command, has deployed 1,500 personnel, including regular and special marshals, to various locations in the state to ensure safety during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Mr Frederick Ogidan, Sector Commander, FRSC, said this on Friday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Asaba.

Ogidan said that a total of 1,500 personnel and special marshals, 20 patrol vehicles, two bikes and two ambulances would be deployed in the state for effective enforcement and emergency response during the festivity.

Advertisement

“Additionally, a 70 tonne heavy-duty tow truck and strategic collaboration with the State Tow Truck Association have been put in place for swift clearance of road obstructions.

“As we celebrate, motorists are advised to avoid speeding, dangerous overtaking, overloading and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“Passengers should also play their parts by calling drivers to order when necessary, while pedestrians must use designated crossings.

Advertisement

“I wish the Muslim community in Delta State a peaceful, joyful and crash-free Eid-el-Fitri celebration.

“Let us all celebrate responsibly and prioritise safety on our roads,” he said.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

Security

Police bans Sallah Durbar in Kano

Published

on

Police bans Sallah Durbar in Kano

The Police Command in Kano State has banned Sallah Durbar activities to ensure a peaceful and incident-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration in the state.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Ibrahim  Bakori stated this  while addressing journalists Kano on Friday.

“The police have banned all durbar activities during the celebrations due to credible security information that miscreants have been recruited to cause chaos and unrest,“he said.

Advertisement

He explained that the police have also prohibited the carrying of objects that may raise tensions.

“We have mobilised sufficient armed personnel, in collaboration with sister security agencies, to provide comprehensive security coverage in our areas of supervision.

“As we celebrate, let us remember that peace is paramount. We must put aside our differences and work together as law-abiding citizens for the progress of our state and nation,”he said.

Advertisement

Bakori said that operational orders have been issued to area commanders and divisional police officers, outlining the necessary security protocols for the festivities in their respective jurisdictions.

The commissioner stated that specific operational orders have been issued to deployed officers, detailing security measures for praying grounds, recreation centers, and public buildings.

Bakori emphasised the importance of sustaining peace in the state and urged parents to caution their children against any acts that may cause havoc.

Advertisement

Residents are also advised to report any suspicious movements to the security agencies.

In case of emergency, residents can reach out to the authorities using the following emergency contact numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575, 09029292926.

Advertisement
Continue Reading

You May Like

Copyright © 2025 Acces News Magazine - All Right Reserved.

Verified by MonsterInsights