Residents of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State staged a protest on Monday in Obagaji, the council headquarters, demanding the removal of Fulani herders from their communities ahead of the farming season.

The protesters, carrying placards and chanting slogans, marched to the local government secretariat to express concerns over the presence of cattle in farmlands as the rainy season approaches. They warned that continued grazing activities could damage crops and trigger clashes.

An eyewitness said the demonstration was driven by ongoing insecurity in the area, alleging that attacks linked to the herdsmen crisis had prevented many residents from accessing their farms.

“They keep attacking and killing our people with sophisticated weapons. We can no longer go to our farms or carry out our farming activities,” the resident said, calling for urgent intervention.

The protesters insisted that herders should vacate farmlands to ensure a peaceful planting season and safeguard livelihoods in the agrarian community.

Confirming the protest, Agatu Local Government Chairman Melvin Ejeh said he had met with the youths and community elders to address their concerns.

“I have spoken with the protesting youths and also met with the elders. Measures will be taken to address the situation,” Ejeh said.

He declined to disclose specific security plans, noting that such matters are not discussed publicly, but assured residents that efforts were ongoing to maintain peace and prevent further violence.

Ejeh added that reported attacks in the area had reduced in recent times and pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to sustain stability during the farming season.