Tension is mounting in parts of Ngbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, as local leaders raise alarm over the growing influx of Fulani herdsmen and the escalating destruction of farmlands by their cattle.
Mr Onwe John Onwe, Councillor representing Okposhi Ward Two, has called on the Ebonyi State Government and security agencies to swiftly intervene before the situation spirals out of control.
According to him, the once peaceful farming season has been severely disrupted by herders who recklessly lead their cattle into cultivated farmlands, causing massive crop destruction.
“The rainy season is our peak period for farming, but our people are being pushed to the wall,” Onwe lamented.
“These herders roam freely, invade our farms, and now frequent our markets. Some have even gone as far as requesting accommodation in our communities — this is a clear move to settle permanently," he further stated.
He further warned that the strategic movement of herders around the Ngbo-Igalla boundary with Benue State and the Ngbo-Effium axis poses a serious threat to peace and food security in the area.
Backing the call, Hon. Henry Onwe from Umuakpu Community disclosed that herders initially withdrew after community pressure, only to return secretly at night, offloading more cows and herders in trailers.
A retired military officer, Mr. Kingsley Omeh, also voiced concern over the security threat. “We’ve seen what happened in Benue. These herders have started issuing threats. They say if any of their cows go missing, they will retaliate. Our people are living in fear, and this must not be allowed to escalate.”
The leaders praised Governor Francis Nwifuru for his ongoing efforts in protecting lives and property but urged him to take urgent and proactive steps to secure the Ngbo axis from looming conflict.
They warned that if left unchecked, the situation could degenerate into violent clashes reminiscent of past herdsmen attacks in other parts of the country.
The community called for surveillance, security outposts, and immediate government attention to avoid a major crisis.
