Abia: LGA Chairman convenes emergency security meeting as cattle destroy farms in Umunneochi
Emergency Security Meeting Convened in Umunneochi LGA Following Farm Destruction
Umunneochi, Abia State — Sunny Afurobi, the Chairman of Umunneochi Local Government Area, has called an emergency security meeting to address the recent destruction of farms allegedly caused by cattle herded into the region.
The meeting, held at Afurobi’s office, included security officials, leaders from the Hausa community, representatives from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in the South-East, and local leaders from affected communities, particularly in Obinolu and Ngodo.
This initiative was prompted by urgent appeals from women in Obinolu, who reported significant damage to their farmlands caused by the cattle, presumed to belong to Fulani herders. Afurobi noted a troubling shift in the area’s security landscape, highlighting that Umunneochi had previously experienced relative peace since the arrival of Governor Alex Otti. He expressed regret over the recent incidents that have disrupted this tranquility.
Farmers have reported extensive damage to crops such as cassava, local beans, maize, and melons. Afurobi underscored that many rural residents rely heavily on agriculture for their livelihoods, and that the ongoing destruction poses a serious threat to their economic stability.
Concerns raised during the meeting included allegations of harassment against women and the abduction of farmers, as well as complaints about violations of prior agreements prohibiting open grazing. Community representatives reiterated their stance against open grazing within their communities and called for decisive action from the Abia State Government to safeguard farmers and their livelihoods.
In response, leaders from the Hausa community at Umuchieze Cattle Market, including Alabit Jubrin and Yaro Danlandi, condemned the destruction of agricultural lands attributed to cattle activities. They distanced their community from illegal grazing and advocated for stricter measures to restore order and promote peaceful coexistence.
Afurobi assured participants that the resolutions made during the meeting would be actively pursued to enhance security, promote peaceful coexistence, and support sustainable development in Umunneochi.
