Timaya Raises Alarm Over Destruction of Farmlands by Herders in Bayelsa

Afrobeats star Timaya has voiced his concern over the disturbing reports of herders destroying plants and farmlands in his home state of Bayelsa. The singer, known for his hit song Dem Mama, took to his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday to passionately call on the government to address the issue urgently.

According to Timaya, the destruction of farmlands by herders is “beyond sad” and requires immediate intervention. He also condemned the practice of open grazing, stressing the need for herders to embrace ranching as a more sustainable and responsible way of feeding their cattle.

He wrote, “Pls the government should do something. They are destroying farms in Bayelsa. Aboki, take your cow inside and feed them. This is so sad.”

Opinion: The Urgent Need for Grazing Reforms

Timaya’s outcry touches on a bigger national issue—the long-standing conflict between herders and farmers, which has led to economic losses, social tension, and even violence in various parts of the country. Open grazing, as seen in Timaya’s home state, continues to negatively affect the livelihoods of farmers whose crops and hard work are destroyed by roaming cattle.

The question remains: why has the government been slow to fully implement measures that can prevent these recurring clashes? Ranching, as Timaya suggested, is a globally accepted model that not only protects farmlands but also improves livestock management and boosts productivity.

If celebrities like Timaya are beginning to speak out against this pressing issue, then it's clear the government needs to pay attention. It’s time for practical policies that encourage herders to modernize their practices, while also ensuring that farmers’ rights are protected.

The nation can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to the continuous destruction of agricultural investments—especially when agriculture remains a significant part of the Nigerian economy.