Nigerian Military Points to Foreign Herders in Farmer-Herder Violence
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has revealed that foreign herders exploiting Nigeria’s porous borders are responsible for escalating attacks on farming communities in Benue, Plateau, and neighboring states. Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this during a press briefing, urging national collaboration to curb cross-border security threats.
Key Findings from DHQ’s Security Briefing
- Foreign Perpetrators: Arrested attackers often differ in appearance, language, and origin. “Their hair and speech show they’re not Nigerians,” Kangye stated.
- ECOWAS Protocol Abuse: Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia blamed the ECOWAS free movement policy for enabling foreign herders’ incursions.
- Local Complicity: While some Nigerian herders clash with farmers over encroachment, “most killings are by foreigners,” Kangye clarified.
The Human Cost: Communities Under Siege
- Recent Attacks: Hundreds killed, thousands displaced in Benue and Plateau.
- Farm Destruction: Crops and livelihoods ruined, worsening food insecurity.
- Security Gaps: Porous borders allow unchecked entry of armed groups.
Call to Action: Strengthening Borders and Collaboration
Kangye emphasized:
“Agencies must account for everyone entering Nigeria. We need inter-sectoral cooperation to secure our borders.”
Proposed Measures:
- Border Surveillance: Deploy tech and personnel to monitor illegal crossings.
- ECOWAS Review: Reassess free movement protocols to prevent weaponized migration.
- Community Vigilance: Empower locals with intelligence-gathering tools.
CTA: How can Nigeria balance ECOWAS protocols with security? Share solutions and follow our coverage.
Final Take
As foreign herders exploit regional agreements to fuel violence, Nigeria faces a critical juncture: tighten borders without stifling trade or risk deeper destabilization. The DHQ’s revelation underscores an urgent need for policy recalibration—a test of regional diplomacy and homegrown security strategy.
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