Benue State governorship candidate on the platform of the SDP, Sebastine Hon. (SAN) has raised strong opposition to plans by the federal government to adopt Benue and four other States in north central Nigeria for the establishment of ranches. Minister for Livestock Idi Mukhtar Maiha who disclosed the Federal government's plan, said the government would promote the cultivation of improved grasses with sufficient nutritional value for livestock. “Today, we go and fetch the grass and bring it where the animals are. Better still, grow the grass where the animals are." He explained that the designated ranching communities would be equipped with essential infrastructure, including housing, veterinary clinics, schools, primary healthcare centres, solar lighting and water facilities. However, Hon, a highly respected constitutional lawyer, in his reaction to the development, queried, "Does the Federal Government have any iota of constitutional vires to set up ranches in the States, particularly in Benue State? The answer is, clearly, in the negative, unless State Governors donate lands as custodians thereof. Benue State Government, come clean on this issue." He said the proposal is a ploy to take over people's lands. "My personal take is that this is a land grabbing scheme, conceived to favour Fulani herders, with attendant security risks. It must be resisted. I personally reject it." The opinion of the reputable lawyer is widely supported across Benue State, with thousands taking to face book and various social media outlets to reject the Federal government's plan. One commentator, Agber Dimah said, "Time to occupy Guma, Agatu, and et al to prevent this nefarious plan from taking hold is nigh! Let the record show that when this evil plan was hatched by our oppressors, I vehemently opposed it." Dimah added, "Tell my children and grandchildren about this day! Let the FGN support us in areas where we have comparative advantage. We must swiftly reject this land grab rather than capitulate shamefully."

Posted: 2months ago

Author: Editor in Chief

Current date: 18 October 2026