A former aide to Benue State Governor, Shehu Tambaya, has called on leaders of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to remind herders of the consequences of violating the state’s anti-open grazing law.
The Former Special Assistant to the state Gov. Samuel Ortom on Herdsmen, Tambaya, made the call when he spoke to the Next Edition in Makurdi.
Tambaya expressed concern that herdsmen were currently moving in droves into Benue through Guma, Agatu local government area and into parts of Makurdi, the state capital, describing it as a worrisome development.
He cautioned that the suspension of the proposed RUGA settlement plan by the federal government did not mean that Benue’s Anti Open Grazing Law had been suspended.
He called on leaders of Miyetti Allah to sensitize their members that the Benue state open grazing prohibition and ranches establishment law was still in force warning that anyone who flouted the law would be sanctioned.
Tambaya recalled that only a few days ago, an Abuja High Court dismissed the suit filed by Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore (MAKH) against the Benue State Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law.
He said the law had come to stay in the state and everyone engaged in livestock business should abide by its provisions to allow for peaceful coexistence and progress of the state.
Tambaya further called on security agencies in the state to monitor activities in the aforementioned local government as well as border areas to prevent breakdown of law and order.
He also advised herdsmen to come forward and approach state government for land to enable them establish ranches or move their cattle to other states where open grazing is currently allowed.
