In response to growing unrest between the Agudama Epie and Akenfa Epie communities over a lingering land dispute, the Chairman of Yenagoa Local Government Council, Hon. Bulodisiye Ndiwari, has called for calm and initiated steps toward a peaceful resolution.
A high-stakes peace meeting was convened today at the council’s conference hall following a peaceful protest led by women from Agudama Epie, who alleged sustained harassment on their farmlands by suspected youths from the Akenfa community.
The meeting was attended by key security stakeholders, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Akpoebi (Rtd), the Department of State Services (DSS) head for Yenagoa LGA, and the Divisional Police Officer of Akenfa.
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👩🌾 Women Cry Out: “We Are Not Safe on Our Farms”
Representing the Agudama Epie women, the community’s spokesperson gave a moving account of the intimidation elderly farmers face daily.
“Our women are being harassed by armed Akenfa youths — they storm our farms, destroy crops, and seize our harvests,” she said. “This land is our only means of survival, and we can no longer work in peace.”
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🛑 “Violence Is Criminal, Not Cultural” — Council Chairman Warns
Responding to the complaints, Hon. Ndiwari unequivocally condemned the attacks and warned all armed individuals to immediately vacate the disputed farmlands.
“Let me be clear — this is not a land dispute anymore, it’s turning into outright criminality. Those hiding in the bush and threatening innocent women must stop now,” he said.
He urged traditional leaders, community development chairmen, youth presidents, and women leaders from both sides to return home and sensitise their people against further violence. According to Ndiwari, the land dispute must be addressed legally, not with weapons or intimidation.
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🕊️ Government Promises Safety and Lasting Peace
Hon. Ndiwari reassured the protesting women that their safety is a top priority and encouraged them to resume farming activities without fear. He also disclosed that the state government is actively working on a long-term resolution to ensure justice and peace prevail.
“You have our word — your farms will not be taken from you through intimidation. The government stands with every law-abiding citizen,” he assured.
He stressed that farming is a livelihood, not a battleground, and warned that the state will no longer tolerate actions that risk community peace and economic stability.
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📌 Final Word
This latest intervention by the local government underscores a critical truth: rural peace and economic activity must not be sacrificed at the altar of unresolved communal disagreements.
The Yenagoa Local Government has made it clear — the time for threats is over. The time for peace and lawful resolution is now.
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— Stone Reporters Community Affairs Desk
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