Ndokwa West Farmers Raise Alarm as Herdsmen Allegedly Return to Farmlands

Farmers in Ike-Onicha, Onicha-Ukwuani and Ogbagu-Ogume communities in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State have appealed to the state government and security agencies to urgently intervene over the alleged return of herdsmen and cattle to their farmlands.

The residents alleged that the herdsmen and their cattle have been destroying crops and preventing farmers from accessing parts of their farms, raising concerns over the impact of the development on livelihoods and food production in the communities.

The appeal was made by a retired Permanent Secretary in the Delta State Civil Service and Onochueze of Ike-Onicha, Onicha-Ukwuani, Ogbuiji Augustine Chukwuma, while speaking with journalists in Ike-Onicha.

Chukwuma commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the Chairman of Ndokwa West Local Government Council, Chief Obi Nzete, for their intervention, which he said had earlier resulted in the herdsmen vacating the affected communities.

According to him, the herdsmen and their cattle left the area about three weeks ago, giving residents some relief.

He, however, said the situation changed on August 5 when residents allegedly discovered that the herdsmen had returned to the communities and resumed occupying farmlands.

Chukwuma said the development had renewed concerns among farmers who depend on their farms for their livelihoods.

He alleged that some farmers had been unable to access their farmlands, while crops were being destroyed as cattle moved through cultivated areas.

The community leader specifically raised concerns over alleged cattle grazing around the boundary between Ike-Onicha and Ogbagu-Ogume, describing the situation as a serious threat to farming activities in the area.

He stressed that the affected communities were peace-loving and law-abiding, saying residents had continued to exercise restraint despite the challenges rather than resorting to self-help.

Chukwuma therefore appealed to the Delta State Government and relevant security agencies to urgently intervene and address the situation.

He called for measures that would ensure the alleged herdsmen and their cattle vacate affected farmlands, allowing farmers to return to their farms and continue their economic activities without fear or obstruction.

The community leader said prompt intervention would help prevent further damage to crops, protect farmers’ livelihoods and maintain peace in the affected communities.