Some communities in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State have raised alarm over the invasion of herdsmen in their enviroment.
The indigenes under the aegis of ‘Save Ovia Group’ made an appealed to the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, to dispatch relevant security agencies to the communities and forests to disband the herders and restore peace in the area.
In a letter titled, ‘Save Our Soul’ and signed by Johnbull Ewaremi, the people said they have become refugees in their own land.
The letter said the herdsmen have destroyed properties including the burning of farms and household properties of residents.
“Lately, we have come under heavy attacks from herdsmen who came to sack the dwellers of some of the communities, burnt houses, destroyed household properties, burnt farms and caused their herds to feed on our farm produce.
“As if these were not enough, they have continued their unwholesome mindlessness by killing, maiming, raping innocent farmers who are out to seek daily bread.
“As we speak, there is no single soul in Abumwenre II and Igolo communities because these marauders have vowed to kill anyone who steps in there, and also made these communities their camps.”