The Benue State Government and the leadership of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) have held a friendly chat over the implementation of the law against open grazing.
Politics Nigeria recalls that there were several disagreements between cattle breeders and former governor Samuel Ortom. This led to the passage of the anti-open grazing law in the state.
But at the meeting on Friday, the government and herders agreed to ensure the implementation of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
The agreement was reached at a meeting in Makurdi which was convened by the two Special Advisers on Security to Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The meeting involved the chairmen of the 23 local government areas of the state, leadership of MACBAN and some traditional rulers in the state.
Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, Chief Joseph Har, said at the meeting that the law prohibiting open grazing in the state was still in force and must be obeyed.
He noted that cattle rearing remains a lucrative business adding that all who engage in it, irrespective of tribe, must practise ranching.
Har emphasised that owners of cattle should provide all facilities needed for their business as government would not take such responsibility.
He harped on the need for a peace committee for farmers and herders to ensure strict enforcement of the law.
