Tension has risen across Tombo Ward in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State as residents report an unsettling influx of herders allegedly grazing their cattle on farmlands without permission.
The development has sparked widespread fear, especially amid claims that the herders openly parade sophisticated weapons.
Community leaders, alarmed by what they describe as an invasion of ancestral land, have taken the matter to the authorities.
It was gathered that petitions have been forwarded to security agencies detailing the scale of the trespass and the threat posed to locals.
One of the petitions, written by the ‘Gaambetiev Local Government Workers Forum’ and signed by its president, Jeyol Hilenen, stated that “there is rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo council ward”.
The document, shared with all security formations in Logo, further highlighted the extent of destruction. It said “the herders are carrying out destruction of farm lands as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities.”
According to the petition: “I write to formally bring to your attention the recent and rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area, particularly within the communities of Anyibe, Azege (Mbaya community), and the Abena Hill.
“Community members have reported the following developments: Ongoing destruction of farmlands in Azege (Mbaya Community) as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities; obstruction of fishing activities in Anyibe, affecting local streams and waterways; prevention of access to fish ponds around Abena Hill located North-East of Anyibe which has disrupted the livelihood of residents.”
It stated further that “The presence and conduct of armed herders have raised serious fear of potential danger based on previous experiences in the area.
“These issues are causing increasing tension and anxiety among residents who rely on farming and fishing as their primary means of survival.
“The situation requires immediate attention to prevent further harm, economic loss and breakdown of peace.”
The petition urged security agencies to immediately verify the situation on the ground, evacuate any herders operating without lawful approval, and deploy personnel to safeguard the affected communities and prevent a possible breakdown of law and order.