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By Chukwudi Abiandu

A retired university professor, Patrick Muoboghare, has filed a blistering petition to the Nigeria Police, raising alarm over what he described as “continuous destruction” of his farmland by suspected Fulani herdsmen in Edjekota-Ogor, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.

In the strongly worded petition addressed to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ughelli “A” Division, the former lecturer at Delta State University, Abraka accused security authorities of failing to protect farmers, warning that continued inaction could push victims toward organized self-defence.

Muoboghare, who said he has farmed peacefully on his land for over 20 years, alleged that repeated invasions by armed herders have led to the destruction of both cash and food crops, including cocoa, cassava, maize, beans, pepper and watermelon.

He claimed the latest attack, which occurred between April 10 and April 14, 2026, saw “acres upon acres” of sweet potato, beans and cotton farms destroyed and fed to cattle.

“Enough is enough,” the professor declared, describing the situation as intolerable and economically devastating.

The petitioner painted a grim picture of widespread fear and helplessness across several communities in Ughelli North, alleging that herdsmen have overrun areas including Agbarha-Otor, Orogun, Ughelli, Ogor, Agbarho, Evwreni and Uwheru.

He further argued that both local and state authorities lack the capacity to enforce existing laws, including the ban on open grazing in Delta State, due to the centralized control of security agencies.

According to him, even the state governor and local government chairman are “helpless,” as they do not command the police or military needed to enforce such laws.

In a stinging critique of the police, Muoboghare questioned the number of arrests and prosecutions made in connection with herdsmen-related attacks over the past two decades.

He also referenced past incidents where police officers were allegedly killed in farmlands within the area, noting that such attacks did not trigger decisive security operations.

The professor accused security agencies of responding swiftly only when communities attempt reprisals, rather than preventing or punishing attacks on farmers.

In one of the most alarming parts of the petition, Muoboghare warned that aggrieved farmers may soon organize to defend themselves if authorities fail to act.

He hinted at the emergence of a resistance movement, stressing that survival instincts may override fear of consequences. “The survival of the people… shall depend on resistance (self-defence), which is a right,” he stated.

The professor suggested that continued attacks could push communities to the brink, warning that “a people pushed to the wall” may resort to desperate measures.

The petition underscores rising tensions in parts of Delta State and other regions where farmers and herders have clashed over land use, grazing rights and security.

Muoboghare warned that if attacks could occur so brazenly near major roads like the Port Harcourt Expressway, then “no one is safe.”

He concluded with a stark declaration questioning national unity under such conditions, calling for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation.

As of the time of filing this report, the Delta State Police Command has not issued an official response to the petition.