A violent incident has intensified concerns over farmer-herder clashes in Kogi State after a Fulani herdsman allegedly severed the hand of a young farmer in Ikoyi, Ijumu Local Government Area. The unnamed farmer also sustained multiple machete injuries during the attack, which reportedly took place on his farmland. The attack has sparked alarm among local residents, raising fears of potential reprisals.
The injured farmer is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Kabba. A video showing the young farmer in the hospital has circulated widely on social media, drawing public attention to the incident.
In response, the Chairman of Ijumu LGA, Alhaji Haruna Ibrahim, convened an urgent security meeting on Monday to address the escalating farmer-herder crisis. The meeting, held at the LGA secretariat in Iyara, brought together security agencies and community representatives, including the Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Joint Task Force, Kogi State Vigilante Service Corps, and leaders from the Fulani, Gbagi, and Tiv communities.
Alhaji Ibrahim assured residents that a thorough investigation would be conducted, with those responsible facing arrest and prosecution. The meeting also focused on strategies to prevent further conflicts, ensure community safety, and foster peaceful coexistence.
As part of the resolutions, the local government council implemented new measures to regulate herding activities. All herders in Ijumu are now required to register with the local government and obtain identification cards, with non-compliance incurring a 2 million Naira fine. Grazing hours are restricted to 6 am to 6 pm, and herders under 18 are no longer allowed within the LGA. Violations of these regulations will result in a 1 million Naira penalty.
The new policies aim to curb tensions and promote peace within the community amidst rising concerns over farmer-herder conflicts.
See video below:
