The traditional ruler of Idjerhe Kingdom in Ethiope West Local Government Area of Delta State, His Majesty King Monday Arthur Whiskey, Udurhie I, has called on both the Federal and Delta and State governments to intervene in the incessant cases of kidnappings and killings by the Fulani herdsmen.

The monarch in a statement signed by the crown OtotaR’Idjerhe otherwise known as the Iyasere, UzziOnosia James Obriki, and made available to journalists in Warri,Delta State specifically called for the  relocation of the herdsmen from the kingdom, emphasising that the Idjerhe people can no longer coexist with the herdsmen due to their criminal activities.

“There is an urgent need to relocate all herdsmen from our Kingdom as the Idjerhe people can no longer coexist with them due to their ongoing criminal activities”, the monarch said.

He condemned in strong terms the recent unprovoked attacks and senseless killings of Idjerhe farmers by the Fulani herdsmen and called on government at all levels including the National Assembly to intervene in the matter by providing relief materials and enhance security, especially along the borders of Idjerhe communities and their neighbours in Edo State.

The statement added, “This situation has created an atmosphere of fear and distrust within our community, and we believe that immediate action is required to safeguard the lives of our farmers and residents. We implore all relevant authorities to recognize the gravity of this situation and to take decisive steps to restore peace, security and stability in Idjerhe.The livelihoods of our farmers and the well-being of our community dependin it.”

The monarch recalled instances of kidnapped activities involving Fulani herdsmen in the kingdom “including the kidnapped of a 14-year-old girl forcefully taken by Fulani herdsmen as a wife or to satisfy their sexual urge”.

“Another girl was similarly snatched in the Kingdom”, the traditional ruler stated

He continued, “Upon hearing of a man killed by Fulani herdsmen, the King instructed the crown Otota to convene a meeting with the Chiefs and people of Edeje and Irhobo communities to discuss the incident.

“During the meeting on May 6, 2025, eyewitnesses gave accounts of their their encounters with the herdsmen.

One eyewitness described being accosted by Fulani herdsmen on her way back from the farm.

“The woman said she was beaten with sticks and cutlasses but managed to escape when the herdsmen approached another man on a motorcycle.

“Another woman reported being kidnapped by Fulani herdsmen and released after her husband paid a ransom of N5million”