A sense of unease has settled over the Okahia Autonomous Community in Abia State’s Obingwa council area, as the traditional ruler, Eze Okey Ananaba, has sounded the alarm on the growing security risks posed by the large-scale acquisition of land by suspected herdsmen.

The monarch’s concerns were voiced during a town hall meeting with officials from the Greater Aba Development Authority, where he highlighted the destruction of crops and the possession of illicit firearms by the herders, which has created an atmosphere of tension in the rural communities.

According to Ananaba, the herders have amassed over 5,000 plots of land in strategic locations, including areas near the border with Akwa Ibom state and behind the National Institute for Nigerian Languages. This has sparked fears that these acquired lands could be used as bases for launching violent attacks on residents.

The traditional ruler expressed frustration that despite repeated petitions to the Abia State Government, no action has been taken to address the issue, leaving the community vulnerable to potential violence.

The situation has been further complicated by allegations that some traditional rulers in the area may be complicit in the land acquisitions, with some community members calling on the government to investigate and put an end to the practice of registering large tracts of land without proper oversight.

The Abia State Government has been urged to take immediate action to prevent a repeat of the violent attacks that have plagued other states, such as Benue and Plateau, where conflicts between herders and local communities have resulted in loss of life and displacement.

Governor Alex Otti has been called upon to launch an investigation into the land acquisitions and take steps to mitigate the growing security risks.

The situation highlights the need for greater vigilance and cooperation between government authorities, traditional rulers, and community members to prevent the exploitation of land for nefarious purposes and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the Abia State Government will take decisive action to address the concerns of the Okahia Autonomous Community and prevent a potentially disastrous outcome.