Fulani Herdsmen Beg Imo Community For Forgiveness After Attacking Farmers

Some herdsmen terrorising the Obokofia community in Ohaji/Egbema local government area of Imo State have asked to be forgiven over their actions.

Vanguard had last week reported that the herdsmen in the community shot at farmers in the area, leading to tension, and some farmers abandoning their farms for fear of being attacked.

The plead was made during the security council meeting held on Wednesday in Ohaji/Egbema, by the transition community chairman, Damian Ezeru, alongside leaders of Hausa community and herdsmen.

The meeting had in attendance members of the Department of State Service, Imo state Hausa Community Chairman, Suleman Ibrahim Suleman, leader of the herdsmen, Yahaya Haruna.

Other stakeholders included the Town Union President of Obokofia community, Ben Mark Adizua, traditional rulers, as well as members of the clergy.

Speaking to his people after the security council meeting, Ezeru said: “I promised to communicate to the state government on what we have resolved, after hearing from both sides. “We have assured our people of maximum security promised to handle the whole issue as a matter of urgency and to achieve peace in the area.

“I urge the people to remain calm for there will not be further violent between them and Herdsmen. “I have listened carefully to the complaints and plights of our people and I promised to report to the appropriate body for final decision. I pleaded with them to remain calm and not to take laws into their hands.”

But Suleiman, the head of the Hausa community was quoted to have said: “I want you people to forgive them and forget whatever the damages these herdsmen have caused this community.”

On his part, Haruna, leader of the herdsmen, simply was captured to have said: “We want you people to forgive us and we understand the plights of the farmers as a result of what is happening, you know in a family there must be a stubborn child who doesn’t listen to the words of the father or mother and some of them will not obey instructions. Please forgive.”

(Herald)