Troops Arrest Two Herders for Destroying Farmlands in Makurdi Amid Rising Tensions

Troops of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have arrested two herders accused of trespassing onto community farmlands and damaging crops in Makurdi, Benue State, during a routine patrol aimed at protecting farmers in the peak harvest season.

The arrests were made on 20 November when OPWS personnel deployed to Zongo Akiki intercepted the suspects after they reportedly led their cattle into cultivated fields belonging to local residents.

Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu, who issued a statement on Wednesday, said the swift action of the troops prevented what could have escalated into a violent clash between farmers and herders.

He noted that both suspects remain in custody as investigations continue and legal procedures are set to follow.

The Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism and urged citizens to avoid taking matters into their own hands during disputes. He warned that retaliatory attacks only heighten tensions and undermine efforts to maintain peace.

Gara also advised herders to conduct their activities within the law, stressing that criminal trespass and destruction of crops will not be tolerated.

He reaffirmed OPWS’s commitment to safeguarding farmlands across Benue and ensuring a secure environment where farmers, herders, and other legitimate businesses can operate without fear.