Benue Governor: FG won't force ranching policy on state

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has called for calm among residents following the Federal Government's announcement listing the state among those selected for a pilot ranching program. Governor Alia clarified that the inclusion does not automatically mandate the establishment of cattle ranches in Benue. He addressed concerns raised by many residents, stating that the announcement needs to be understood in its proper context. Alia reminded the public that Benue State has a standing law prohibiting open grazing, which remains in force. He noted that "livestock" is a broad term encompassing various animals, not exclusively cattle, and that historical areas like Kyogen were designated for livestock activities during the Aper Aku administration. The governor further disclosed that areas in Vandeikya were identified for goat and sheep ranching, suggesting that livestock development does not automatically equate to introducing cattle ranching. "If we don’t want cows, meaning if the people of the state do not want the ranching of cows here, the Federal Government is not forcing the state to have cow ranching," Alia assured. He urged residents and opponents of the announcement to "calm down," emphasizing his commitment to peace and ensuring government policies align with the people's interests. Alia described President Bola Tinubu as "a peaceful man" unlikely to impose policies against a state's wishes and cautioned against reacting to information circulating on social media without full understanding.

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it doesn’t necessarily mean that we are going to have any ranch in the state.