The people of Odame Community, Ekperi Clan in Etsako Central LGA of Edo State have sent a save our soul plea to the state’s Commissioner of Police over threat by Fulani herdsmen to invade the community.
The plea was contained in a letter dated April 29, 2025. It read:
The Commissioner of Police,
Edo State Police Command,
Benin City, Edo State.
Date: 29th April, 2025
Urgent Petition Against Threats of Attack by Fulani Herdsmen on Odame Community, Ekperi Clan, Etsako Central LGA
Sir,
We, concerned members and representatives of the Odame Community in the Ekperi Clan, Etsako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, write to urgently bring to your attention a matter of grave concern threatening the peace, safety, and lives of our people.
Credible information reaching the community indicates that Fulani herdsmen operating in and around the environs of our community have issued direct threats to attack and completely wipe out the Odame Community. These threats have instilled fear and unrest in our people, who now live in anxiety and uncertainty about their safety and the security of their properties and farmlands. Today the 29th of April 2025, several Tiv settlers in Odame forest were chased out of their camps by suspected Fulani headsmen who told them they have come Odame Community. As we speak, Odame village is almost empty as villagers are finding their way into neighbouring communities for safety.
There have been previous arguments between local farmers and herders due to the destruction of farmlands and aggressive encroachment by herders, but the recent developments have escalated beyond disputes and now pose a direct and imminent threat to life and communal peace.
We respectfully request the following:
1. Immediate investigation into the threats issued by the said herdsmen.
2. Deployment of security personnel to the Odame Community and surrounding areas to deter any planned attacks.
3. Engagement with local leaders, traditional rulers, and community youth to maintain calm and cooperation with law enforcement.
4. A lasting strategy to prevent violent clashes and protect indigenous communities from external aggression.
We trust in your office’s commitment to maintaining law and order and call upon you to act swiftly to prevent what could otherwise become a tragic event.
Thank you for your attention and urgent intervention.
Yours faithfully,
Mustapha Abdulai Buddy, PhD, MERIN
mbuddy92@gmail.com
08035698589
On behalf of the Odame Community, Ekperi Clan,
Etsako Central Local Government Area, Edo State
CC:
Sen. Monday Okpebholo,
Executive Governor, Edo State
Sen. Adams Oshomole,
Senator Representing Edo North
Hon. Dekeri Anamero
MHR, Representing Etsako Federal Constituency