The persistent conflict between farmers and herders in Benue State, Nigeria, has created a climate of fear and devastation, impacting communities across the state. The recent attacks, characterized by wanton destruction of crops and loss of life, highlight the escalating violence and the urgent need for effective intervention. In Gwer West Local Government Area, farmers discovered their vast guinea corn and cassava farms decimated by herders, a scene that brought some workers to tears. The traditional ruler, HRH Daniel Abomtse, confirmed the destruction, noting that the herders not only grazed their cattle on the crops but also deliberately cut them down. While this incident spared lives, a subsequent attack in Logo Local Government Area proved far more deadly. Suspected Fulani herders stormed Azege village and surrounding areas, killing over 20 people and injuring many more. The attackers, described as heavily armed and possibly numbering over 300, overwhelmed local security forces and only retreated after the intervention of a military jet. Just a day later, another attack in Katsina-Ala LGA claimed the lives of more than 10 people.
These tragic events underscore the widespread nature of the conflict, which has affected at least 18 of Benue State’s 23 local government areas. Historically, conflicts between farmers and herders stemmed from competition for resources, particularly during the dry season when pastoralists migrated south in search of grazing land. Traditional conflict resolution mechanisms previously existed to address these disputes. However, the current situation is significantly different, marked by increased violence and the presence of sophisticated weaponry. The leader of the three major socio-cultural groups in Benue State, Iorbee Ihagh, contends that the attackers are primarily foreign mercenaries intent on annexing the Benue Valley. He described the displacement of entire communities, the destruction of homes, schools, and healthcare facilities, and the occupation of these lands by armed herders. Ihagh himself has been displaced from his ancestral home in Kwande Local Government Area, highlighting the personal toll of the ongoing conflict.
The scale of the violence is alarming. HRH Abomtse reported 577 deaths in his local government area since 2011, with 67 killed between January and November 2024 alone. He also cited numerous kidnappings and described major roads as “death zones” due to the frequent attacks. The free grazing of cattle on farmlands, despite the presence of security personnel, further emphasizes the sense of impunity felt by the attackers. Both Ihagh and HRH Abomtse have appealed to the government for intervention. Ihagh urged President Tinubu to expel the foreign herders and restore the occupied lands to their rightful owners. HRH Abomstse called for the proscription of the groups perpetrating these attacks. The urgent need for improved security measures and the protection of lives and livelihoods is paramount.
The Benue State Government has taken steps to address the escalating security crisis. Governor Hyacinth Alia inaugurated the State Civil Protection Guards, a 5,000-strong security outfit equipped with vehicles and motorcycles. This new force consolidates the previous Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards established under the former governor, Samuel Ortom. The government has also recruited retired military, police, and paramilitary personnel to provide training and enhance the professionalism of the Civil Protection Guards. This move aims to instill discipline and improve the tactical capabilities of the force. Workshops have been organized to integrate the existing commanders of the former security outfits into the new structure.
Governor Alia described the launch of the Civil Protection Guards and the provision of equipment as a decisive step in combating crime and ensuring the safety of Benue residents. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and creating an environment where people can live and work without fear. The governor charged the new security personnel to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and ethics, expressing confidence in their ability to fulfill their crucial role. He also acknowledged President Tinubu’s support and the federal government’s ongoing assistance in strengthening security in the state.
The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs and Traditional Rulers, has highlighted the impact of the insecurity on traditional leaders, lamenting the loss of several rulers’ lives. He urged traditional rulers to actively collaborate with security operatives to address the crisis. The Tor Tiv commended the state government for providing vehicles and motorcycles, which will enhance the mobility of security forces in reaching remote areas. However, a key question remains: the effectiveness of the new security force without the authority to bear arms. Community leaders like Solomon Onah argue that the state government’s efforts will be hampered unless the federal government permits state security operatives to carry arms. This concern fuels the call for state police, seen as a necessary step to effectively counter the escalating insecurity not only in Benue but across the country. The ongoing debate over state police highlights the complexities of addressing the security challenges facing Nigeria.
