Troops of Nigerian Army have arrested two herders for allegedly trespassing into community farmlands and destroying crops in Makurdi, Benue State, as the Nigerian Army steps up efforts to protect farmers during the harvest season.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday 26th November, 2025, by Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu Zubairu of HQ JTF Operation Whirl Stroke, the incident occurred on 20 November 2025 during a routine patrol by troops deployed at Zongo Akiki.
The soldiers reportedly intercepted the suspects after they were found leading cattle into cultivated farmlands belonging to local residents, resulting in damage to crops.
The Army said the swift intervention of the patrol team helped prevent further destruction and a potential confrontation between the herders and affected farmers. The suspects were taken into custody for further investigation and possible legal action.
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Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, commended the troops for their professionalism. He urged community members to avoid taking the law into their own hands when confronted with disputes, stressing that retaliation or violence could escalate tensions and threaten peaceful coexistence.
Major General Gara also warned herders to obey the law and refrain from actions that undermine security and public order. He reaffirmed the operation’s commitment to safeguarding farmlands and creating a safe environment for legitimate economic activities to thrive.
The Nigerian Army will continue to intensify harvest-season patrols in o boosting food security and protecting farming communities across Benue and neighbouring states.
