By Warefa Pereke.
April 4, 2025.
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – A recent radio phone-in program on 97.5 Golden FM, anchored by Erema Yanga, highlighted a pressing concern that demands immediate attention from the government and relevant authorities.
The Fulani herdsmen’s gradual invasion of farm lands in Bayelsa State has instilled fear in the hearts of aged parents, relatives, and friends, who are now hesitant to tend to their farms.
This alarming situation, which has led to the rising cost of farm products, requires swift and decisive action from the government, Ministry of Environment, and appointed committee members.
The consequences of inaction could be catastrophic, leading to food insecurity, loss of livelihoods, and potential conflicts.
“We urge the authorities to take the following steps: Conduct a thorough assessment of the situation to determine the extent of the invasion and the destruction of the affected areas, engage with critical stakeholders, including farmers, community leaders, and the Fulani herdsmen to find a peaceful and sustainable solution to the problem, deploy security personnel to protect farmers and their lands, ensuring a safe and secure environment for agricultural activities, and establish a committee to monitor the situation, provide support to affected farmers, and develop strategies for preventing future invasions,” she said.
Some of the concerns expressed by the callers to the FM program highlight the severity and urgency of the situation. “The repeated loss of homes, farm products, farm lands, and loved ones to the herdsmen’s attacks, without adequate response or support from the government is unacceptable and devastating,” said one of the callers.
The government’s failure to respond adequately to the situation has created a sense of mistrust and frustration among the affected communities. It is essential that the Federal and State government takes immediate action to address the situation and rebuild trust with the communities. They should also provide support and protection to the affected communities, and hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The people of Bayelsa State cannot afford to wait. The government must act now to protect their farm lands, ensure food security, and maintain peace in the region. We call on the authorities to treat this matter with the urgency it deserves and work towards a lasting solution.
