AGATU COUNCIL CHAIRMAN, EJEH CONVENES PEACE AND SECURITY MEETING
… Issues Warning to Herders Over Crop Destruction, Sets Departure Deadline for them
….commends Operation Whirl Stroke and Mrs. Hannah Ochepo for their outstanding efforts.
In his address Agatu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Amb. James Melvin Ejeh , expressed deep concern over the peace and security of lives and properties of Agatu people.
Hon. Ejeh, who also serves as Deputy Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Benue State, maintained that his top priority is to ensure his people live and farm in a peaceful and secure environment.
The meeting, which took place at Ogbaulu community on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, brought together community leaders, district heads, security agencies, Apa local government executive council members, Fulani stakeholders, respected elders, and vibrant youths to address Farmers Crop Destruction and strengthening the security architecture in the area.
Speaking at the meeting, Ejeh emphasized, “Throughout my campaign, I have a consistent plea from our communities: to create an Agatu where residents can live without fear, sleep peacefully, and farm with confidence.”
“As a proud son of Agatu, I recognize the crucial role farm crops play in our local economy and the well-being of Benue state.”
“My administration is resolute in its commitment to protect every Agatu resident, preserving the prosperity of our ancestral land.”
“To achieve this, I convened this meeting to develop strategies for safeguarding farmer’s crops across our entire local government area.”
While issuing a strong warning to herders over crop destruction, the Agatu Council Chairman directed Fulani herdsmen to vacate the area at the onset of the rainy season, ensuring uninterrupted farming activities.
Hon. Ejeh also commended Mrs. Hanah Ochepo, a distinguished daughter of Agatu, for her selfless contributions to the meeting, exemplifying the biblical spirit of Deborah.
He urged the people of Agatu to emulate her remarkable example, emphasizing that “peace is a collective responsibility that requires our united efforts.”
Furthermore, the Chairman expressed his deepest appreciation to the security agencies, particularly Operation Whirl Stroke, for their tireless efforts and commitment to maintain peace in the area.
On her part, Mrs. Hannah Ochepo commended Ambassador Melvin James Ejeh for convening a pivotal meeting in her community Ogbaulu and urged the people to forgive past grievances, emphasizing that development and peace are inextricably linked.
In their separate remarks Och’Agatu, as represented by Agatu West third-class chief, Jerry Ochola, and Odugbeho district head, Chief Adejo Anthony Denison, emphasized that unity and collective support are crucial for the Honourable Chairman’s visionary plans to bring lasting peace and prosperity to Agatu.
A notable highlight of the meeting was the Fulani stakeholders’ sincere apology for crop destruction, along with their commitment to provide compensation and honor the traditional practice of seasonal relocation.
HRH Elameje Sani Ogbaulu traditional chief in his vote of thanks, commend his community members for their tolerance and resilience, which has paved way for peace to flourish in the region.
He also offered prayers for the Agatu Chairman’s continued success and glory, acknowledging his tireless efforts towards the community’s prosperity.
Amb Obochi Solomon
Chief Press Secretary to Executive Chairman of Agatu LG
March 20, 2025