Traditional rulers under the Tiv Area Traditional Council have given herders a 10-day ultimatum to vacate farmlands across Tiv communities in Benue State, citing escalating security threats and the urgent need to resume farming activities to avert food shortages.
The decision was reached during an emergency meeting held at the palace of the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ayatse, in Gboko. The council called on the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia to create a peaceful and enabling environment for the orderly withdrawal of herders from occupied farmlands across the Tiv Kingdom.
In a communiqué signed by the council’s secretary, Mr. Shinyi Tyozua, the council directed political and traditional leaders in each local government area to engage herders constructively and peacefully to facilitate their exit before the end of May 2025.
The Council expressed grave concern over the widespread occupation of farmlands by herders, which it said had led to the displacement of farmers and disruption of agricultural activities. Communities worst affected by the crisis were identified as Kwande, Katsina-Ala, Logo, Ukum, Guma, Makurdi, Gwer West, Gwer East, and Buruku LGAs.
“With the continued attacks on farmers and grazing on cultivated lands, farming has come to a halt in many communities,” the statement read. “If the current trend persists, it will result in severe hunger not only in Tiv land but across Nigeria.”
The Council appealed to all herders within Tiv land to voluntarily vacate farmlands and support efforts aimed at restoring peace and agricultural productivity in the region.
The statement underscores a growing tension between herders and host communities in the state, a conflict that has significantly contributed to food insecurity and rural displacement.