Benue gov-elect vows to strengthen anti-open grazing law

Kebbi counterpart to establish religious affairs ministry

Benue State governor-elect, Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has promised to strengthen the state’s Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law 2017.

He made the pledge, yesterday, when the leadership of Mdzough-U-Tiv (MUT), the Tiv umbrella socio-cultural organisation, paid him a courtesy visit in Makurdi.

This was as his Kebbi State counterpart, Dr. Nasir Idris, assured all the religious leaders that his administration will establish Ministry for Religious Affairs. 

Decrying the level of insecurity in Benue, Alia promised to strengthen the implementation of the Anti-open Grazing Law through provision of ranches and other amenities, adding that the economic activities involved in building and maintaining ranches would provide job opportunities for the youths of the state. 

The governor-elect charged MUT to preach the imperative of unity and peaceful co-existence for progress and development.  The Catholic priest enjoined the organisation to sensitise the people to embrace agriculture, especially in the face of dwindling job opportunities, describing farming as a full-time job, which, if well managed, would transform the lives of many in the state.

President-General of MUT, Iorbee Ihagh, has called on the Tiv to join hands with the governor-elect to fix the state.  Ihagh urged the governor-elect to resist the temptation for favouritism and select members of his government based on competence and merit.

Noting that the elections are over, the retired police commissioner called on all, irrespective of political leaning, to work together in the interest of the state.

IN Kebbi, Dr. Idris made the proclamation, yesterday, while receiving the leader of Muslims in the state, who visited the Government House. According to him, the essence of establishing the religious affairs ministry of is to bring a synergy between the religious leaders and communities. 

“I promised this during my campaign, and I assured you that I am going to implement it. Establishing the religious ministry will create more awareness on illicit acts and criminality among the youth,” he said.

The Chairman, Ulama Committee, Baite Lawal, who led the delegation, said they were in Government House to pay him a victory visit, assuring him of their prayers for success. 

“We are here to express our gratitude over God’s wish. God gives leadership to whom he wishes. Our own major contribution is to continue with our usual prayers for you to succeed,” he added.