Fulani Herders Allegedly Set Farmland Ablaze in Amankwo Uzuakoli, Bende LGA

# **– State Government, Security Agencies Launch Investigation**

Amankwo Uzuakoli, Bende LGA, Abia State – March 6, 2025

The Abia State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, has launched an investigation into the alleged arson and destruction of farmlands in Amankwo Uzuakoli, Bende Local Government Area, reportedly perpetrated by Fulani herders.

A delegation comprising representatives from the office of the Honorable Member representing Bende South State Constituency, Hon. Chukwuemeka Maduakolam (SA), alongside Comrade Frank Chibuzo (SA on Media), Hon. K.K. Nochiri (Councillor Representing Uzuakoli Ward), and key government officials visited the affected community. Also present were Commandant Emma Ogbuehi (representing the SA on Security to the Abia State Government), Mr. Onyema Uchemadu (representing the Secretary to the State Government and Secretary to the Farmers Committee), delegates from the Uzuakoli Police Division, Mr. Emeka Charles from the DSS Command, Bende Zone, and HRH Eze Yaro.

### **Incident Overview**
According to a petition sent to the Abia State Security Committee by villagers, Fulani herders have allegedly been grazing their cattle on farmlands in the community since 2024, leading to significant destruction of cassava crops. The situation escalated when residents discovered that their farmlands had been set ablaze, with herds of cattle seen grazing amidst the fire.

Eyewitnesses claim that upon confrontation, the herders commanded the cattle to flee, leaving behind widespread destruction. The damage to the farmlands has been estimated at millions of naira.

### **Government and Security Response**
In response, the State Government Delegation assured the community of immediate intervention through grassroots security strategies aimed at diffusing rising tensions and preventing potential ethnic conflicts.

Furthermore, preliminary investigations will be conducted to ascertain the identity of the cattle owners and bring those responsible to justice. Hon. Chikodiri Eze has called for compensation from the State Government to enable affected farmers to sustain their families.

The security agencies reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring justice, maintaining law and order, and protecting the rights of all citizens. Villagers have been urged to remain calm while investigations proceed.

### **Community Response**
The President General of the community, Mr. Nwabukwu Godwin Ogbonnaya, alongside the Secretary, Apostle Paul Oji, expressed their gratitude to the state government, security agencies, and all concerned stakeholders for their swift response and concern over the matter.

The State Government and security authorities emphasize their dedication to preventing further conflicts and ensuring a peaceful resolution to the situation.