TENSION IN IGBUZO AS RESIDENTS ALLEGE GROWING TIES BETWEEN TRADITIONAL INSTITUTION, HERDSMEN

By Reporter

Residents of Igbuzo, a once peaceful community in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State are expressing concern over what they allege to be a growing alliance between their traditional ruler, Obi (Prof.) Chelunor Nwoboshi, the Obuzor of Igbuzo and herdsmen operating within the area. The development, according to community sources, has allegedly turned the town into a safe haven for herders and their activities.

What initially appeared to be isolated cases of cattle encroachment on farmlands has reportedly escalated into a wider security challenge. Residents allege that herdsmen now operate with a sense of impunity by destroying crops, trespassing on ancestral lands and intimidating locals  while efforts to address the issue are met with silence or inaction.

Multiple reports from the community suggest that the situation allegedly stems from the monarch’s decision to entrust cows donated to him by subjects and well-wishers to Fulani herders for rearing. What began as a gesture of goodwill, residents claim, has evolved into a relationship that appears to shield the herders from accountability.

In several quarters across Igbuzo  including Umueze, Umuodafe, Umuekea, Atu-farm Road and Ogbeowele, farmers have lamented consistent destruction of their farmlands by cattle. Complaints to local security groups and vigilante teams have reportedly yielded little result, as herders linked to the palace are said to enjoy special protection.

Community observers allege that this situation is further complicated by the local government chairman’s perceived loyalty to the traditional ruler. His reluctance to take decisive action, they claim, stems from political and personal dependence on the monarch, creating a cycle of silence and inaction at the leadership level.

The alleged alliance between the traditional institution and herdsmen has, according to local analysts, deepened tension and mistrust in the community. Many residents now express fear that without prompt intervention, the growing resentment could spiral into open conflict.

Civic leaders and youth groups are calling on the Delta State Government and federal security agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly, warning that continued neglect could lead to a breakdown of law and order. Some community elders have also advised against presenting live cow gifts to the monarch, describing the practice as one that has allegedly brought unintended consequences upon the town.

Security experts note that similar cases of alleged traditional and political complicity have emerged in other parts of Delta State and the South-South region, creating unregulated grazing zones under the guise of peace arrangements.

As of press time, efforts to reach the Obuzor of Igbuzo for comments on the allegations proved abortive, as palace aides declined to respond.

The situation remains tense, with residents hoping that relevant authorities will act swiftly to restore confidence, accountability and peace in the community.