The decision of the federal government to finally ban open grazing of livestock as a panacea to the endless farmers/herders bloodbath appears to be eliciting mixed reactions from a cross-section of Nigerians, especially the people of Benue State.
The National Economic Council, last week, approved ranching of Cattle and recommended a ban on open grazing in the country. It also banned free movement of cattle across the borders of Nigeria from other ECOWAS member states.
This would be welcome a development for many Nigerians, especially in Benue State, as many have had been victims of mass killings associated with militant herdsmen in a quest to force their way.
The Deputy Governor of the State, Mr Benson Abounu, is one of those particularly elated by the latest development. Abounu described the decision as a step in the right direction in putting a stop to herdsmen/farmer killings and clashes.
However, a former House of Representatives, Mrs Rebecca Apedzan, seems to have some reservations on the matter, warning that taxpayers’ money should not be used to build these ranches for private individuals. She insists that the business owners should take up this responsibility.
Meanwhile, the State Governor, Samuel Ortom, who was quite pleased with the outcome, commended all involved parties and especially recognized the Vice President who set up the committee that assessed the situation and adopted this strategy.
Photo Credit: Agro News Nigeria
