BY ANTHONY ADA ABRAHAM
As an Idoma man, I cannot stand by and watch as my people are attacked under the guise of nomadic activities. If the security forces cannot protect them, does that mean they shouldn’t defend themselves?
Many people avoid traveling home out of fear of being attacked by gunmen posing as nomads. When discussions about designated grazing reserves for Fulani herders came up, they were dismissed. When ranching was suggested as a solution, they refused, choosing instead to roam freely, causing chaos and destruction.
These armed groups move around unchecked, carrying deadly weapons, yet security forces fail to act. And you expect the people to remain defenseless? They invade farms, destroy crops, and threaten lives,should the victims simply applaud them?
It’s time for the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to the grazing routes issue. The era of unchecked cattle movement must come to an end. If some insist that their culture involves wandering with cattle, others have the right to reject a culture that brings conflict and destruction.
The establishment of ranches would resolve much of this crisis, and border security must also be strengthened, as many of these attackers infiltrate Nigeria from beyond our borders.
Additionally, I have heard claims that some village chiefs accept payments from Fulani herders before allowing them to settle and graze in their communities. If this is true, then local leaders must be held accountable when these herders turn against their hosts, destroying farmlands and endangering lives.
We cannot continue lamenting hunger, violence, and destruction while ignoring practical solutions. Enough is enough! Our people should not have to live in fear, unable to sleep peacefully in their own villages.
As I always say, if the government and security forces fail to protect you, do not wait to become a victim before taking steps to protect yourselves.
As my father wisely put it: “Na person wey dey alive dey explain wetin happen.”
Let us continue advocating for peace while ensuring our own safety is sacrosanct.
I rest my case.
©️ Okrote4real
