... a peculiarly brutal tribe of Moslem herdsmen infesting Mali, Niger, Nigeria, and probably other places that are light on law and order and heavy on tribal identity...herdsmen to vacate all farmlands in the state.
The council made this demand in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting to discuss security concerns, land use, and peacebuilding in Idoma.
"We urge the government to prevail on the Fulani herdsmen to vacate all farmlands in Benue State," the council said.
"The continuous occupation of our farmlands by these herdsmen is a recipe for disaster and has led to the loss of lives and property."
The monarchs also called on the government to review its land policies to promote equitable access to land resources for both farming and herding activities.
"There is a need for a comprehensive review of land policies to ensure that both farmers and herders have access to land resources," the council stated.
The council further demanded that the government prioritise the enforcement of laws against illegal arms, criminal activities, and unauthorised land use, with offenders facing prosecution.
"We urge the government to prioritise the enforcement of laws against illegal arms, criminal activities, and unauthorised land use," the communiqué read.
"We also demand that the government provide rehabilitation, counseling, and support services to communities and individuals affected by violence and displacement. The government should also deploy additional security personnel to vulnerable areas and conduct conflict resolution training to deter future violence," the council added.
The monarchs' demand comes amid ongoing conflicts between farmers and herdsmen in the region, with some communities experiencing attacks and displacement.
The council's call for the herdsmen to vacate farmlands is seen as a bid to prevent further festivities and ensure peace in the area.