Following the recent Influx of herders and their cattle in the state, Benue State government has reiterated its stance on its Ranching law saying that anyone who violates the law will not be spared, but would be prosecuted.
Governor Samuel Ortom stated this in a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase and made available to the Next Edition in Markurdi.
The Governor said it has become necessary to remind pastoralists moving into Benue State with their livestock in the last couple of weeks that there is a law in force in the state which has placed a permanent ban on open grazing of animals.
He said, “No individual or group of persons is above the law. Whoever wants to do livestock business in Benue should remember that there is a law in place which regulates animal husbandry.
“The herdsmen who are invading the state with their cattle in gross violation of the law should expect legal consequences of their actions.
“The Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law 2017 is sacrosanct and must be obeyed by everyone, irrespective of ethnicity, religion and place of origin. The law does not accord preferences to anyone”, he said.
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Ortom warned that herders or livestock owners who refuse to keep their animals in ranches will be prosecuted in accordance with provisions of the Law.
He pointed out that since November 1, 2017, when enforcement of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishments Law commenced, no pastoralist has applied for land lease to operate a ranch.
“This is a clear indication that the herdsmen are bent on resisting enforcement of the law.”
The Governor called on Benue people to remain peaceful, law abiding and volunteer information regarding open grazing of animals to the state Livestock Guards whose job it is to support conventional security operatives in enforcing the legislation.
The statement said Nigerians who wish to engage in livestock and other businesses in Benue State are encouraged to do so as the Samuel Ortom administration is willing to collaborate with investors in different sectors of the economy.
It also said Governor Ortom is committed to supporting security agencies to guarantee peace in all parts of the state as he has been doing.
