Benue: Groups raise alarm over alleged planned attack by herdsmen

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

Main socio-cultural groups in Benue State have raised alarm over alleged Fulani militia build-up and convergence at Nigeria-Cameroon border and at Agatu border with Nasarawa State to the North West of the State.
The group consisting of Mdzough U Tiv, Tiv umbrella body, the Idoma National Forum and Omi NY’igede representing Igede nation, raised the alarm yesterday during a courtesy visit to Governor Samuel Ortom at Government House, Makurdi.
Leader of the group, Chief Edward Ujege said the leadership of the herdsmen have held clandestine meetings in Nigeria and abroad to carry out mayhem and genocide on Benue people.
According to him, the plot is said to be multi-directional and aimed to simultaneously invade and attack Benue State from every angle so that there would be no escape for our defenseless people.
Responding, Governor Samuel Ortom said government would partner with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture to establish pilot ranches in the state, adding that the anti open grazing law is meant to ensure lasting peace between farmers and herdsmen who are advised to embrace dialogue and good neighborliness.