Benue Villagers Warn of Rising Threat as Armed Herders Ravage Farms

Tension is rising in Akpachi community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, following reports of a large group of armed herders occupying farmlands and destroying crops.

Residents said the herders have been moving freely across farming areas, damaging cultivated fields and creating an atmosphere of fear that has forced many farmers to stay away from their lands. Crops such as cassava, rice, plantain, and cashew were reportedly affected.

Community leaders claimed that the situation has persisted for weeks without intervention, warning that continued destruction of farms could worsen food shortages and economic hardship in the area.

The traditional ruler of the community, Chief Samuel Alachenu Udenyi, expressed deep concern over the development and appealed to security agencies to take immediate action to protect lives and property.

Locals warned that failure to address the issue promptly could trigger displacement and unrest, urging government authorities to act before the situation deteriorates further.