By Barikui Felix
Monarchs of Ogoniland in Rivers State have declared that lands in the area are not available for grazing by herdsmen.
The warning follows reports of suspected herdsmen invading farmlands and communities in Khana and other parts of Ogoniland, with the traditional rulers calling for immediate government intervention.
In a statement jointly issued by the Gbenemene of Bangha Kingdom, HRM King Suanu Baridam, and HRH Mene Daniel F. Nwidag, Mene Bua Baen, on behalf of the Khana Traditional Rulers Council, the monarchs strongly condemned the recent incursions by suspected Fulani herdsmen that have resulted in the killing of innocent people.
The meeting, attended by traditional leaders from various communities in the region, stressed the urgent need for government action to avert a potential breakdown of law and order.
Expressing outrage over the violent attacks, the monarchs reaffirmed that Ogoni land is not open for grazing or any related activity by Fulani herders.
“We want to make it unequivocally clear that the Ogoni people do not have any land for the Fulani herdsmen. Our lands are sacred and must be protected,” Baridam stated.
They specifically described the recent invasion of Sogho by the herdsmen as unacceptable and demanded their immediate withdrawal from the area.
Responding to threats by local youths to defend themselves if security agencies fail to act, the monarchs urged restraint, appealing to the youths to avoid actions that could escalate the situation.
“We understand the frustrations and emotions surrounding these invasions, but we must approach this matter with wisdom and avoid actions that could escalate tensions,” they said.
The traditional rulers criticised the police for what they described as a compromised handling of the issue, urging law enforcement agencies to take a more proactive and impartial approach to protect the lives and rights of the Ogoni people.
They also cautioned fellow traditional rulers in Ogoniland against entering into any agreements or discussions with Fulani herders over land, warning that such engagements could worsen the already volatile situation.
