A cattle herder, Saidu Muhammad, has appeared before the Upper Area Court in Doma, Nasarawa State, charged with criminal intimidation, mischief, and trespass.
He is accused of deliberately driving his cattle and sheep onto farmland belonging to the Abundance of Hope Initiative (AHI), causing significant damage to maize and bean crops.

AHI, represented by counsel Abigail Musa, alleges that on September 28, 2024, Muhammad and other herders forcefully entered AHI’s 10-hectare farm along Alagye Road, Doma, despite being refused permission to graze their livestock.

The court heard that AHI’s field supervisor, Jonathan Akwe Agbadu, along with local hunters, attempted to prevent the herders from entering the property, but were overwhelmed by the sheer number of animals.

Muhammad and his fellow herders then allegedly threatened Agbadu and other farm workers with knives, machetes, and sticks. AHI reported the incident to the Doma Divisional Police Headquarters, leading to Muhammad’s arrest. His accomplices reportedly fled the scene upon the arrival of police officers.

The destruction of the crops, which were nearing harvest, has resulted in estimated losses of over N15 million for AHI, according to Musa. Muhammad pleaded not guilty to the charges. He was granted bail of N1 million with two sureties, one of whom must be a traditional ruler or a person of notable character. The case was adjourned to October 28 for a hearing.