The Agatu Youth Development Initiative (AYDI) has raised the alarm over a resurgence of violence in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, condemning the recent killing of a herder and the reported rustling and slaughter of over 210 cows across several communities.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Saturday, the group denounced the criminal acts, blaming them on elements described as “enemies of Agatu” determined to derail the hard-won peace established in the region.
The AYDI leadership, comprising its National President, Ngbede Edoh, and Woman Leader, Mrs. Rose Onuminya, expressed fears that the disturbing incidents could reverse the progress achieved under the peace-building strategy championed by Agatu LGA Chairman, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, since his assumption of office in October 2024.
“We are constrained to issue this press statement in light of the recent wave of attacks and theft in Agatu, which threaten to undo the peace our people have worked so hard to sustain,” the statement read.
The group lamented the verified killing of a young herder and the destruction of livestock, warning that the acts of aggression were being carried out by outsiders seeking to incite chaos. According to AYDI, these perpetrators are not indigenes but “crisis merchants” driven by ulterior motives to plunge the area back into a cycle of violence.
“Our investigations have revealed that those behind these attacks are not true sons and daughters of Agatu. They lack the spirit of peace and hospitality that defines our people. Instead, they are tools in the hands of sponsors who benefit from conflict and destruction,” the statement said.
AYDI praised the peaceful co-existence that had blossomed in Agatu following a mutual agreement between local leaders and Fulani herders, under which both parties pledged to uphold respect for local laws, customs, and traditions.
The group emphasized that the local population has remained committed to being good hosts, fostering an environment of tolerance and mutual respect. It warned, however, that the recent acts of violence posed a serious threat to this fragile peace.
“If nothing is done – and urgently too – we fear a return to the dark days where bloodshed and reprisals were commonplace. We must not allow that to happen,” AYDI cautioned.
Describing the perpetrators as “bad eggs” and “beneficiaries of wickedness,” the youth body urged security agencies to swiftly identify and apprehend those responsible, to prevent further escalation and to reassure residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
“We cannot afford to let criminals drag us backward. The peace we enjoy must be protected at all costs,” the group declared.
AYDI concluded by reiterating its support for the efforts of the local government chairman and called on all stakeholders—including community leaders, security operatives, and residents—to remain vigilant and united against any attempts to destabilize the region.
