Benue proposes a bill for ranches

Benue State Executive Council has proposed a bill for the establishment of ranches by cattle owners to reduce conflicts between farmers and herdsmen.

Special Assistant to Governor Samuel Ortom on Media and Information Communication Technology (ICT) Mr. Tahav Agerzua, in a statement, said the governor disclosed this when the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Airforce (NAF) Base, Makurdi, Air Vice Marshal R. A. Ojuawo paid him a visit.

Ortom was quoted to have stated that when passed into law, the ranches would forestall the incessant clashes between farmers and herders in the state.

“Governor Ortom said the initiative would be a permanent solution to the age-long conflict, adding that the establishment of ranches remained the best practice for cattle owners across the world.

The governor, who expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for maintaining a cordial working relationship with the government and people of the state over the years, urged the officers and men of the command to help his administration to tackle the insecurity challenges confronting the State.

Governor Ortom stressed that his government has taken proactive measures, including the declaration of an amnesty programme to recover illegal arms in the state in order to create a conducive environment for investment to thrive.

Earlier, Air Marshal Ojuawo requested the governor to take proactive steps to sustain security in the state and explore the possibility of commencing flight operations from Abuja to Makurdi at least three times in a week.

He expressed the resolve of the NAF BASE in Makurdi to continue to discharge its responsibilities creditably and requested the governor to visit the Command to see things for himself.

Governor Ortom also hosted the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Yahaya Garba Ardo, the management of the University of Mkar, Graduate Internship Scheme of the Benue SURE-P, former staff of Taraku Oil Mills as well as the management of Jos Electricity Distribution Company.