A storm is brewing in Benue State as the Apa Youth Vanguard has sounded the alarm, warning Fulani herdsmen to steer clear of Apa Local Government, which borders the now-alert Agatu LGA.
In a fiery move on Saturday, April 26, 2025, Agatu LGA Chairman, James Melvin Ejeh, issued a strict 48-hour ultimatum demanding Fulani herders vacate farmlands immediately. The warning came during a tense stakeholders’ meeting at the Obagaji council secretariat, where farmers, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and security personnel gathered to confront the escalating tensions over land use.
Ejeh didn’t mince words. “Our farmers must cultivate without disruption,” he declared. “We will do everything necessary to protect our people and their livelihood.”
Though the Ado of the Fulani pleaded for a one-week grace period—granted in the spirit of peace—the message was clear: the clock is ticking.
The Apa Youth Vanguard didn’t hold back either. In a stern message, the group cautioned herders against inching toward Apa territory, saying the community is ready to defend its land. “We’ve had enough. This is a warning—don’t bring the crisis to our doorstep!” a spokesperson declared.
Agatu Youth Leader Oloche Silas vowed to support a peaceful evacuation but warned that the youths would not tolerate further provocations. Meanwhile, security forces praised the calm handling of the situation and promised full support to ensure peace.
Elder statesman Chief John Agidani, speaking on behalf of the Och’Agatu, urged all parties to stick to the deal, lauding the Chairman’s firm leadership.
With the planting season underway and tension rising, all eyes are now on Agatu and Apa. Will calm prevail—or is this just the calm before the storm?
