Agatu Council Chair Condemns Herdsmen Attacks, Commends Security Forces for Swift Response
By Matthew Eloyi
The Executive Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council and Vice-Chairman of Benue ALGON, Hon. Melvin James Ejeh, has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of attacks by suspected herdsmen in Agatu, particularly in the Agatu West area.
In a press release, Ejeh condemned the violence, highlighting the most recent assault on Okwutanobe Village in Ogwule Ogbaulu Ward, where homes were set ablaze, and livestock were stolen by the attackers.
Ejeh acknowledged the prompt intervention of security forces, particularly the Nigerian Armed Forces under the leadership of Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and other Service Chiefs.
He praised their efforts through Operation Whirl Stroke and the Nigerian Police Force for repelling the bandits and restoring peace to the affected community.
“Clearance operations have already begun in the entire Agatu local government and will continue until every inch of Agatu land is recovered,” Ejeh said, affirming that his administration is committed to ensuring that no part of Agatu will be lost to the attackers.
He also extended his gratitude to the Benue State Commissioner of Police and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Agatu for their relentless efforts in confronting the insecurity.
Ejeh assured the people of Agatu that both kinetic and non-kinetic measures are being employed to tackle the situation, and he reiterated his administration’s dedication to restoring peace, stability, and development to the region.
He emphasized plans to rebuild the communities affected by the attacks as quickly as possible.
“Agatu is our ancestral home, and no one can chase us away from here,” Ejeh declared, urging criminal elements to surrender and repent, as his administration would leave no stone unturned until lasting peace is achieved in Agatu for sustainable development.
