Nigerian music star Timaya has stirred controversy on social media after speaking out against the destruction of farmlands in Bayelsa by herdsmen grazing their cattle.
Frustrated by the situation, he took to X on March 18, 2025, to call on the government to intervene. Expressing his concerns, 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.”
His statement immediately caught the attention of Nigerians, sparking debates over both the issue at hand and his choice of words.
While many of his fans supported his stance, agreeing that herders should be held accountable for the destruction of farmlands, others were less receptive. Some thanked Timaya for using his platform to raise awareness and demand government action, emphasizing that local farmers have long suffered losses due to unchecked grazing.
However, a significant number of social media users criticized him for using the term “Aboki,” which is often associated with northern Nigerians and can be seen as derogatory in certain contexts. They argued that his message could have been delivered in a more neutral and inclusive manner without sparking ethnic tensions.
Beyond the controversy surrounding his wording, others questioned why Timaya was only speaking up now, implying that this issue has plagued Bayelsa farmers for years without much attention from public figures.
Critics suggested that celebrities should use their influence to push for long-term solutions rather than just reacting when problems escalate.
Despite the mixed reactions, Timaya’s post has reignited discussions about farmer-herder conflicts in Nigeria, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions that protect both agricultural livelihoods and peaceful coexistence.
