The Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, Eze Linus Nto Mbah, has said incidents of clashes between farmers and herders, as well as the destruction of farmlands, declined across Abia State in 2026.

Eze Mbah stated this on Saturday during the celebration of the 2026 New Yam Festival in his community, Ata Igbo Ukwu, Umuzomgbo Autonomous Community, Arochukwu Local Government Area.

According to the monarch, sustained peace initiatives involving the Abia State Government, traditional rulers, leaders of Northern communities in the state and indigenous cattle owners contributed to the reduction in clashes between farmers and herders.

He said several communities across the state, including Ata Igbo Ukwu Umuzomgbo, recorded improved harvests of yams and other agricultural produce in 2026 compared to the previous few years.

Eze Mbah encouraged farmers in Abia to return to their farms without fear of attacks.

He, however, cautioned cattle owners against allowing their herds to enter and destroy people's farms or trespass on private properties.

The traditional ruler assured that traditional rulers in the state would continue to support the peace and security efforts of Governor Alex Otti, particularly in ensuring the safety of communities, farmlands and forests.

Eze Mbah also urged the Federal Government to ensure that agricultural funding and other inputs intended for genuine farmers are not diverted to politicians or individuals without farms.

“More Nigerian youths would be interested in farming if they are supported with adequate funding and they are ready to go into commercial agriculture if the farms are made safe,” Eze Nto said.