Women from Obibor, Asa in Umunneato autonomous community, Ukwa West LGA of Abia State, stormed their monarch’s palace, demanding justice for the destruction of their farms by cattle allegedly owned by Fulani herdsmen.
The protesters, who sought compensation for the damaged crops, including cassava, called for an end to cattle grazing on their farms. They expressed frustration and anger over the repeated incidents of cattle encroachment, resulting in substantial financial losses and threats to their livelihood.
According to the women, crops in their farms, which were ready for harvesting and those that were still in developing stage, were devastated after the herdsmen took their animals into the farms. Some of the women said they secured loans to cultivate the farms, which were then devastated by the cattle.
Addressing the protesters, the traditional ruler, Eze Tunde Onyemachi Ehiemere, commended them for their patience and restraint. “I commend you for not taking the laws into your hands,” he said. Eze Ehiemere assured them that he would reach out to relevant government authorities to address the issues and urged them to return home.
