Fear has gripped residents of Tombo Ward in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State following the influx of large numbers of herders grazing their cattle without permission in the community.

The fear in the community is compounded over allegations that the herders are heavily armed with sophisticated weapons which they display openly.

DAILY POST learnt that the community leaders who are worried by the unauthorized trespass of their ancestral lands have petitioned relevant authorities.

One of the petitions written by a group called ‘Gaambetiev Local Government Workers Forum’, and signed by its president, Jeyol Hilenen, stated that “there is rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo council ward”.

The petition, which was made available to all security agencies in Logo Local Government Area, said “the herders are carrying out destruction of farm lands as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities.”

According to the petition: “I write to formally bring to your attention the recent and rapidly increasing influx of migrant herders into Tombo Council Ward of Logo Local Government Area, particularly within the communities of Anyibe, Azege (Mbaya community), and the Abena Hill.

“Community members have reported the following developments: Ongoing destruction of farmlands in Azege (Mbaya Community) as a result of uncontrolled grazing activities; obstruction of fishing activities in Anyibe, affecting local streams and waterways; prevention of access to fish ponds around Abena Hill located North-East of Anyibe which has disrupted the livelihood of residents.”

It stated further that “The presence and conduct of armed herders have raised serious fear of potential danger based on previous experiences in the area.

“These issues are causing increasing tension and anxiety among residents who rely on farming and fishing as their primary means of survival.

“The situation requires immediate attention to prevent further harm, economic loss and breakdown of peace.”

The petition recommended immediate verification and assessment of the situation by security personnel, while also recommending lawful removal and relocation of any individual or herding groups operating without authorisation, and deployment of security personnel to stabilise the affected areas and prevent escalation.