The OnTiv Professionals Association (OPA), a non-partisan socio-cultural group of Benue professionals based in Abuja, has petitioned the federal government over what it described as “incessant, systematic, and unprovoked attacks and killings” of innocent citizens across Benue communities by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
Presenting the petition at a press briefing in Abuja, OPA president, Engr. Abraham O. Aku, decried the persistent assaults on several local government areas of Benue State, which he said have led to the deaths of over 300 people in recent months, the destruction of farmlands and property worth billions of naira, and the mass displacement of rural populations.
“These killings are not random or accidental—they are coordinated, premeditated, and have now assumed the pattern of armed militia invasions. “What was once referred to as herder-farmer clashes is now a full-blown war on innocent communities,”Aku said.
According to the petition, areas most affected include Kwande, Ukum, Logo, Katsina-Ala, Buruku, Agatu, Otukpo, Guma, Gwer West, and Gwer East local government areas. Also in attacks on Otobi-Akpa community in Otukpo LGA, 11 bodies were recovered, with search operations ongoing, as confirmed by Hon Agbo Kennedy, the lawmaker representing Otukpo/Akpa constituency.
The association alleged that the attackers often strike at night while residents are asleep, leaving entire villages in ruins and survivors traumatised and displaced.
“These are no longer herders; they are militias wielding sophisticated weapons including AK-47s, RPGs, and drones. They come not just to graze but to conquer and dominate,” the group stated.
OPA expressed frustration with the failure of state and federal security agencies to respond promptly and effectively.
“Too often, security forces arrive only after the damage is done—sometimes arresting local youths who attempt to retrieve bodies or resist the invaders,” Aku lamented.
The group issued a series of demands, including: Immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of the perpetrators; Deployment of Special Forces and surveillance technology to affected communities; A compensation and resettlement programme for displaced residents; Official declaration of armed Fulani herdsmen as a terrorist group; Stronger enforcement of the Benue State Anti-Open Grazing Law; A public response and proactive security measures from Governor Hyacinth Alia.
OPA also endorsed the creation of a state police structure or community defence forces to provide faster and more locally informed responses to security threats.
Speaking further, Engr. Benjamin Nyior, a trustee of the association, accused federal authorities of a long-standing attempt to take over land in Benue under the guise of ranching.
“This is not about cattle; it is about conquest. They want our land,” Nyior said.
The association warned that unless swift action is taken, the people of Benue may be forced to resort to self-help to protect their lives and lands.
“Let the government hear us now before the people’s patience runs out,” Aku concluded.
OPA submitted that the ongoing insecurity in Benue threatens not just local communities but Nigeria’s entire food production system, given the state’s reputation as the nation’s food basket.