The traditional ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, His Majesty King Monday Arthur Whiskey, Udurhie I, has made a passionate appeal to both the Federal and Delta State governments to urgently address the ongoing kidnappings and killings allegedly perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen in his domain.
In a statement released by the Crown OtotaR’Idjerhe (also known as the Iyasere), UzziOnosia James Obriki, and circulated to journalists in Warri, the monarch called for the immediate relocation of herdsmen from Idjerhe Kingdom.
He stressed that the people of the kingdom can no longer continue living alongside them due to repeated criminal incidents.
“The security situation in our kingdom has become unbearable. We can no longer share our land with herdsmen who are responsible for continuous violence and insecurity,” King Whiskey said.
He condemned the most recent attacks on farmers in his kingdom, describing them as senseless and unprovoked, and called on all tiers of government, including the National Assembly, to step in and help restore safety to the region.
The king also requested the provision of relief materials and increased security, particularly along the kingdom’s borders with neighboring communities in Edo State.
“This climate of fear and uncertainty must not continue. Immediate and meaningful intervention is needed to protect our farmers and residents. The lives, livelihoods, and stability of our people are at stake,” the monarch emphasized.
He recounted several disturbing incidents involving Fulani herdsmen, including the abduction of a 14-year-old girl, who he claimed was taken to be used as a wife or for sexual exploitation.
He said another girl was similarly abducted under troubling circumstances.
Following reports that a man was killed by herdsmen, the king directed the crown Otota to summon a meeting of traditional leaders and residents from Edeje and Irhobo communities to address the issue.
During the meeting, held on May 6, 2025, eyewitnesses shared their terrifying experiences. One woman recounted being ambushed by herdsmen while returning from her farm.
She said she was assaulted with sticks and machetes, but managed to escape when they turned their attention to another passerby on a motorcycle.
Another resident described how his wife was kidnapped and only released after he paid a ransom of five million naira.
The monarch’s call reflects rising tensions and fear among the people of Idjerhe, who say they have endured too many violent incidents at the hands of herdsmen and are demanding urgent action from authorities to prevent further bloodshed.