By Atoyebi Nike
Tensions are escalating in Anyimbe and Awashuwa communities in Benue State’s Ayilamo district as local farmers raise alarm over the growing influx of herders and their cattle from neighbouring Nasarawa State.
Residents fear the continued presence of the herders could destroy farmlands, disrupt livelihoods, and trigger violent clashes. Farmers report that cattle are already encroaching on cultivated areas, threatening their crops and income.
“We can’t just stand by and allow the cattle to destroy the crops we’ve invested so much in,” said Shim Akur, a farmer in Awashuwa. “If we try to stop them ourselves, it could lead to confrontation. We need urgent government intervention.”
In Anyimbe, similar concerns are mounting as residents report ongoing damage to farms and increasing insecurity. Efforts to reach Police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, for comment were unsuccessful.
