Residents of several communities in Edo State are fleeing their homes in panic due to escalating attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
The violence has intensified in recent weeks, with reports of killings, kidnappings, and widespread fear among local populations.In the Ovia North-East Local Government Area, communities such as Igolo and Abumwenre have been particularly affected. Residents report that armed men, believed to be herders, have ambushed farmers, leading to fatalities and abductions. The Odionwere (traditional leader) of Igolo, Felix Egharevba, stated that the community has been deserted, with many fleeing to safer areas or urban centers like Benin City. He described the situation as dire, with no government assistance forthcoming .
The violence has also spread to other parts of the state. In the Orhionmwon Local Government Area, the council chairman, Hon. Sylvester Okoro, issued a 14-day ultimatum for herders to vacate the area due to increasing incidents of kidnapping, killings, and destruction of farmland. He condemned the actions of the herders, stating that they have turned the community's hospitality into a weakness
The state government has faced criticism for its handling of the crisis. Despite establishing special military posts in some strategic locations and promising support for vigilante groups and hunters, residents argue that these measures have been insufficient to curb the violence .
In response to the escalating situation, some communities have taken matters into their own hands. In Uromi, women organized protests, blocking major roads to draw attention to the harassment and intimidation they face from herders. They reported that their crops were being destroyed by cattle and that they were living in constant fear of attacks .
The continued violence has led to widespread displacement, with many residents seeking refuge in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps or neighboring communities. The situation remains tense, with calls for increased security and government intervention to address the root causes of the conflict and restore peace to the affected areas.
As the crisis deepens, the need for a coordinated response from both state and federal authorities becomes increasingly urgent to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of all residents in Edo State.
