Benue State governor, Samuel Ortom has said herdsmen in neighbouring countries have concluded plans to invade the state.

Ortom raised the alarm at NSKT Church in Taraku, Gwer Local Government Area, during the burial of Mama Atese Rebecca.

He said the attack was because of the state’s stance on ranching.

The governor called on the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state to organise prayer and fasting in order to avoid bloodshed.

He added that he had received security reports that herdsmen across the West African sub-region were planning to invade the state.

He added, “The anti-grazing law our government came up with was to protect both farmers and herdsmen. I have been saying that this government is ready for any superior alternative, but to me, the global practice is ranching of cattle.

“Let me appeal to our religious leaders, CAN, to organise prayers and fasting for peace to reign in the state.”

While hosting the country representative of the United Nations High Commissioner on Refugees, Edward Kallon, Ortom had said herdsmen attacks had led to the death of 1,878 Benue residents, while 200 persons were still missing.