ONICHA-UGBO/Nigeria: In a bid to address the persistent threat posed by Fulani Herdsmen in Onicha-Ugbo, Delta State, HRM Obi Chukwumalieze has convened an urgent meeting with community stakeholders to strategize on resolving the issue.
During an expansive gathering of Ogbekenu residents and non-indigenes at his palace, the traditional ruler assured the populace that measures were being taken to swiftly eliminate the menace of Fulani Herdsmen from the town.
Obi Chukwumalieze, addressing the assembly, emphasized the gravity of recent events, particularly the tragic killing of Mr. Ifeanyi Izeke by the Herdsmen. He conveyed the commitment of the Obi-in-council in engaging with security agencies to devise effective strategies for the complete removal of the herders from the community.
The monarch urged patience from the community, emphasizing the need for a peaceful approach to resolving the crisis. He implored the youth to refrain from vigilantism and allow the authorities to handle the situation for the safety of all residents.
Adding his voice to the discourse, Iyase Agba, Chief Alex Odi-Okoh, urged residents with information on the whereabouts of the herders to collaborate with the Obi-in-council for swift action. He recalled past instances where community action had successfully expelled herders from residential areas.
Despite the urgency of the situation, Chief Odi-Okoh emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment to facilitate the expedited resolution of the issue.
Responding to the leaders’ remarks, community members including Mr. Afedi Odozi, Mr. Augustine Asimonye, Mrs. Elizabeth Ijeli, and Miss Uche Jesu, echoed the sentiment of unity and determination in urging the traditional ruler and his council not to relent until the Fulani herders were completely removed from the community’s vicinity, including bushes and farmlands.
The meeting concluded with a unified resolve from both leadership and residents to work collaboratively towards achieving a safe and secure environment free from the menace of Fulani Herdsmen.
