By Daniel Aondoaseer Zendesha 

The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, has declared that the area is now largely peaceful and ready for investment after years of insecurity linked to farmer-herder clashes. Speaking at the maiden edition of Idoma Day Abuja 2026, he said improved security has allowed commercial activities to resume across the local government.

The Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, has said Agatu is experiencing improved security and is now open for business, encouraging investors to take advantage of the area's economic potential.

Speaking during the maiden edition of Idoma Day Abuja 2026, Ejeh acknowledged that occasional security skirmishes still occur but maintained that the overall security situation has improved considerably.

According to him, major commercial centres, including the Oweto and Obagaji markets, are fully operational, while all parts of the local government are accessible to investors and businesses.

"I want to inform everyone that Agatu is now peaceful. Although there are still occasional security skirmishes, the situation is stable, and people can confidently come and do business with us," he said.

The chairman invited entrepreneurs to invest in sectors such as fishing, agriculture and mining, describing Agatu as a community with significant untapped economic opportunities.

He added that the local government is working to change public perception after years of violent farmer-herder conflicts that affected livelihoods and economic activities.

"The days when Agatu was known only for farmer-herder clashes are behind us. We have moved beyond that era. Today, Agatu is peaceful, welcoming and ready for growth and development," Ejeh stated.

His remarks are expected to boost investor confidence and encourage renewed economic activity in Agatu, which has experienced prolonged security challenges in previous years.