The traditional ruler of Ekperi Kingdom in Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, Alhaji D.Y.E. Kanoba, has allegedly issued a quit notice to all herdsmen and their families residing in the community.
He reportedly gave the order during a meeting held at his palace with leaders of the herder community and other stakeholders, in response to persistent incidents of kidnapping, killings, destruction of farm produce, and other criminal activities allegedly carried out by suspected herdsmen.
It was gathered that the monarch’s decision aims to prevent possible reprisal attacks by aggrieved youths in the area.
According to the royal father, the people of Ekperi have endured a series of relentless attacks, including the kidnapping of locals for ransom, destruction of farmlands by roaming cattle, loss of livelihoods, violent assaults, and reported cases of rape.
He lamented that many farmers are now too afraid to return to their farms due to the continued threat.
“I do not want a situation where our youths will take up arms in anger. To avoid further crises, I am peacefully appealing to the herders to leave the Ekperi community now before the youths of the community run out of patience.
“I don’t want anybody to attack you people. The DPO has gone to Benin City for a briefing. I advise you that immediately after this meeting, they should go to their camps and pack their belongings.
“We can no longer tolerate the ongoing attacks on our people and crop damage. Our people’s safety is paramount, and we cannot allow this to continue.
“I do not want the situation to escalate to our people, mostly the youth, taking laws into their hands. We must address this matter peacefully and with order, ensuring that no violence is perpetrated.
“I kneel down, and I also beg you all with the name of God, you people should pack your properties and leave my community,” he was heard saying in a video recording of the meeting.
The traditional ruler also alleged that security agencies, including the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), had been notified of the community’s decision in a bid to maintain law and order.
