Benue Gov’t and Miyetti Allah Agree on Grazing Law Implementation

• The Benue State Government and MACBAN leaders agree to implement the state’s anti-open grazing law effectively
• Stakeholders, including local government chairpersons and traditional rulers, pledge commitment to peaceful coexistence and rule of law enforcement

The Benue State Government and the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) have reached a consensus to ensure the effective implementation of the state’s anti-open grazing law.

The agreement was forged during a meeting held in Makurdi on Friday, facilitated by the two Special Advisers on Security to Governor Hyacinth Alia. The gathering convened key stakeholders, including the chairpersons of the 23 local government areas, MACBAN leadership, and selected traditional rulers, aimed to address the pressing issue of open grazing in the state.

Chief Joseph Har, the Special Adviser on Security and Internal Affairs, reiterated the state’s commitment to upholding the anti-open grazing law, emphasizing the imperative for all cattle rearers, irrespective of tribe, to embrace ranching as the preferred method of cattle farming. Har underscored the need for cattle owners to assume responsibility for providing necessary facilities for their business operations, highlighting the government’s stance against assuming such responsibilities.

Furthermore, Har emphasized the establishment of a peace committee to facilitate dialogue and enforce compliance with the law, urging herders to discourage the influx of external invaders and maintain peace within the state’s borders.

Ardo Mohammed Risku, the state Chairman of MACBAN, echoed the call for sincerity among stakeholders regarding ranching practices. He emphasized the importance of all parties adhering to the law and collaborating with the government to address external incursions by herders. Risku called for equitable treatment, urging non-Fulani cattle owners also to embrace ranching practices.

The stakeholders affirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence and the rule of law, pledging to work collaboratively towards effectively implementing the anti-open grazing law in Benue State.