Benue State Governor Orders Full Implementation of Anti-Open Grazing Law

Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has announced that the 14-day ultimatum given to herdsmen engaged in open grazing has ended, and it is now time for the full implementation of the anti-open grazing law by security agencies in the state.

The decision was made by the State Security Council after monitoring the activities of armed herders and reviewing a report from a 7-man committee led by the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke.

During a press briefing at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, Deputy Governor Dr. Sam Ode emphasized that the law was not targeted at any specific group and warned that anyone found in violation of the law, regardless of their position, would be prosecuted.

Over the past two weeks, there has been a peaceful withdrawal of most herders from the state.

The Commissioner of Justice and Public Order, Barr. Fidelis Mnyim, further clarified that the anti-open grazing prohibition and ranches establishment law of 2017 was still in force in the state, and anyone caught engaging in open grazing would face legal consequences.

The Force Commander of Operation Whirlstroke, Major General Sunday Igbinomwanhia, explained that a 7-man committee was set up to work out modalities for the withdrawal of armed herders, which he referred to as a non-kinetic approach to conflict resolution.

Operation Whirlstroke and other security agencies in the state have expressed their commitment to implementing the full directive of the government.

Operation Whirlstroke conducted clearance operations in Kwande local government, targeting specific criminals who had invaded the area.

General Igbinomwanhia also addressed the recent crisis in Ukum local government, clarifying that it was a clash between two militia groups rather than an attack on any community.