Atiku calls for review of open grazing and ranches establishment law

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Atiku Calls for Review of Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law

Former Vice President and Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called for a review of the Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law passed by the Benue State Government.

Atiku made the call while speaking at a town hall meeting in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, where he met with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, farmers, and herdsmen.

The former Vice President expressed concern over the law, which he said has led to the displacement of many farmers and herders, and has created tension in the state. He argued that the law is not a solution to the problem of farmers-herders clashes, but rather a recipe for more conflict.

Atiku suggested that a more comprehensive approach is needed to address the issue, including the establishment of ranches and the provision of alternative livelihoods for herders. He also called for the establishment of a national livestock development policy that would provide a framework for the development of the livestock sector in the country.

The former Vice President also appealed to the Federal Government to provide support to Benue State in addressing the challenges posed by the law, including the provision of resources to support the establishment of ranches and the provision of alternative livelihoods for herders.

It is worth noting that the Open Grazing and Ranches Establishment Law was passed by the Benue State Government in 2017 to address the issue of farmers-herders clashes in the state. The law prohibits open grazing and requires herders to establish ranches to rear their cattle. However, the law has been criticized by many, including some herders, who argue that it is not a solution to the problem and has led to the displacement of many herders.