Panic in Nasarawa as over 20 cattle die after grazing on farmer's crops

By Johnson Arua

More than 20 cattle reportedly died after grazing on a farmer's cultivated land in Gidan Gade Onda, Udege community, Nasarawa Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, triggering tension in the area.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on the night of Friday, July 18, has forced the owner of the farmland to flee the community for fear of possible reprisals.

Sources in the area said the cattle allegedly strayed into the farm during the night, after which they died under circumstances that have sparked controversy among residents.

Following the incident, the District Head of Udege, Alhaji Abdullahi Kuku, led other traditional rulers and officials of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Nasarawa LGA to the scene to assess the situation.

Addressing both farmers and herders, the district head cautioned farmers against applying harmful substances on their farms that could endanger livestock.

He also urged herders to ensure that their cattle, as well as their children, stay away from cultivated farmlands to avoid recurring clashes between farmers and herders.

Authorities have yet to officially confirm the cause of the cattle's death, while efforts are expected to continue to prevent the incident from escalating into a wider communal conflict.