The Benue State Security Council has issued a 14-day ultimatum to herders found violating the state’s anti-open grazing law, warning them to cease open rearing of animals outside designated ranches or face consequences.
Governor Hyacinth Alia chaired the security council meeting, where it was resolved that herders must adhere to the state’s Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Law (2017), emphasizing that the law remains in effect.
During a press briefing at the Government House in Makurdi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Sir Tersoo Kula, disclosed that a seven-member committee has been established to enforce the injunction, effective from Wednesday, February 21st, 2024.
Furthermore, the council urged herders who recently entered the state with their cattle to depart immediately and return to their places of origin, cautioning against further invading herders into the state.
Amid these developments, the council advised residents to stay vigilant and cooperate with security measures, assuring ongoing efforts by the government to safeguard lives and property.
Security agencies, traditional leaders, and the public were also urged to report individuals collaborating with armed herders for prosecution.
The council acknowledged the nationwide challenges of hardship and impending food insecurity and assured Benue residents of government efforts to mitigate these issues.
Benue State has long grappled with herder-farmer conflicts, with the implementation of anti-open grazing laws contributing to tensions in recent years.
