Security fears grow as armed herdsmen move into border communities in Benue

By Johnson Arua

Residents in parts of Benue State are facing heightened anxiety due to the unusual movements of suspected armed herdsmen and their cattle, particularly in the Logo and Gwer West Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The movements have raised serious concerns among local communities, especially those near the border with Nasarawa and Taraba States.

According to a local source from Logo LGA, large numbers of armed herdsmen were seen entering the Tombo Council Ward from neighboring Awe and Keana LGAs in Nasarawa State, crossing into the area with cattle from multiple directions.

Some of the herders were reportedly camping on the outskirts of Gidin-Mangor village, while others moved through abandoned villages and forests, seeking refuge in the surrounding wilderness.

These movements have been ongoing since before Christmas, but they have now intensified, alarming residents. "People are afraid because they are settling around forests and abandoned villages close to our communities," a local source explained.

Forests such as Yashina Debo, Ashaku, Ijor Tsafa, and Agyo have reportedly been affected by the herders' presence.

As the armed herders continue to make their presence felt, residents have limited their movement, and social and economic activities in Tombo Council Ward have been disrupted.

There are unconfirmed reports suggesting that some of these individuals might be fleeing military operations or terrorist activity from other regions, possibly linked to recent US airstrikes.

Community members are urgently calling on security forces to deploy additional personnel, citing their vulnerability due to the proximity of the border to Nasarawa and Taraba States.

“We are appealing to the authorities to act fast before the situation escalates. Our safety and livelihoods are already under threat,” one local leader stated.

Meanwhile, in the Tse Ati community of Mbabuande, Gwer West LGA, reports of similar movements of armed herdsmen have sparked growing tension.

A community leader shared that the herders were seen in significant numbers on Monday, creating concern over potential unrest. While no attacks have occurred yet, residents are calling for increased vigilance and timely intervention from security agencies.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent Udeme Edet could not be reached for comment.