By Amos Aar
THE TIV Area Traditional Council (TATC) has directed all herders to leave Tiv land by the end of May 2025, citing escalating threats to food security in Benue State.
The decision was reached during an emergency meeting held at the palace of the Tor Tiv in Gboko, Benue State.
The gathering, chaired by His Royal Majesty, Orcivirigh Professor James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv, included all graded traditional rulers from across the Tiv Kingdom.
In a communiqué signed by the Council’s Secretary, Shinyi Tyozua, TATC expressed deep concern over repeated attacks on farmers by suspected armed herders.
These incidents have disrupted agricultural activities in key local government areas such as Kwande, Katsina-Ala, Logo, Ukum, Guma, Makurdi, Gwer West, Gwer East and Buruku.
The Council warned that continued violence could displace more farmers and worsen the looming food crisis in the region and across Nigeria.
To prevent widespread hunger, it demanded the immediate and peaceful withdrawal of herders from Tiv territories by the specified deadline.
The TATC also urged political leaders and traditional rulers in affected areas to facilitate dialogue with herders to ensure an orderly exit. Additionally, it called on governments at all levels to support the relocation process by enhancing security measures.
With the 2025 farming season already underway, the Council emphasized the urgent need to restore peace so that farmers can return to their fields and sustain agricultural production in Benue State.
