Olusegun Ariyo
A youth group in Benue South, under the banner of the Ochetoha K’Idoma Youth Wing, has issued an ultimatum to Fulani herders operating in the region, demanding their immediate departure amid growing insecurity and violence.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by its President, Comrade Magaji Mike Alidu, the group cited continuous killings, destruction of property, and attacks on communities in the area, particularly the Idoma and Igede ethnic groups, as the basis for the demand.
The group pointed to recent attacks in Ojantele Akpete ward of Apa Local Government Area, which reportedly resulted in multiple deaths, destruction of homes, farmlands and public infrastructure, as well as cases of rape, theft, and intimidation.
These incidents, they said, have left residents displaced and economically devastated.
“This serves as a formal notice and ultimatum to vacate the premises of Benue South with immediate effect,” the statement read, warning that the region can no longer “harbour those who have become known enemies of progress.”
As the farming season begins, the group announced plans to fumigate farmlands and bushes in the area, an exercise they say is aimed at controlling pests and protecting crops.
However, they cautioned that the fumigation would make the environment unsafe for animals, and urged herders to vacate for their safety.
“We hereby warn you that our farmland and bushes will not be safe for any animals during this period.
“Let it be on record that we have warned you, and we will not be held responsible for any losses or harm that may come,” the statement added.
