In the Ike-Onicha region of Delta State, inhabitants have turned to spiritual measures after exhausting diplomatic avenues to address a crisis with cattle herders. Residents of this Onicha-Ukwuani community reached a breaking point, leading local leaders to invoke traditional deities to drive away suspected herdsmen accused of encroaching on their land.
According to Ogbuiji Augustine Chukwuma, the community secretary, attempts at peaceful negotiation were ignored by the settlers. Armed groups allegedly set up camp near the community a month ago, creating an environment of terror that forced many farmers to flee their fields due to threats of kidnapping, assault, and violence. Consequently, the destruction of crops has triggered a local food crisis.
Matthew Ujene, who heads the Delta North Livestock Management Committee, confirmed that his team successfully identified and dismantled an unauthorized forest camp after the occupants refused orders to leave. A security meeting has been organized by the local government chairman to address the situation, while officials are emphasizing the necessity of strictly enforcing the state’s prohibition on open grazing.
