Troops arrest herders over farm destruction in Makurdi

Troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke have arrested suspected herders for encroaching on and destroying cultivated farmlands in Makurdi, Benue State. The military component, operating from the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Jetty, responded to a distress call from farmers in the Lower Benue Basin.

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On 18 July 2026, troops of the Maritime Component Operation Whirl Stroke, operating from the Nigerian Army School of Military Engineering (NASME) Jetty, responded to a distress call from farmers at Lower Benue Basin, Ejaha London, Makurdi.

Farmers reported that suspected Fulani herders drove cattle into their farms, causing extensive damage to crops including rice, maize, okro, and tomatoes. Upon sighting the approaching troops, the herders abandoned their cattle and attempted to flee. The suspects were apprehended and handed over to the 401 Provost Group for further investigation and potential prosecution for farm encroachment and malicious grazing.

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The Farmers reported that suspected Fulani herders had driven cattle into their farms, causing extensive damage to crops.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, issued a stern warning against criminal activities that could escalate tensions and lead to violent conflicts. He reiterated the operation's zero tolerance for criminality and unlawful activities, urging residents to promptly report any suspicious or illegal actions to security agencies for swift intervention. In a separate incident, Major General Gara visited the recently attacked Otukpo-Nobi community to assess the security situation and reassure residents, vowing to pursue those responsible for the attack.

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OPWS maintains zero tolerance for criminality and other unlawful activities, while urging residents to promptly report suspicious or illegal activities to security agencies for swift intervention.