Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has denied accusations that he planned to allocate land to Fulani herders, asserting his administration’s commitment to addressing the challenges of open grazing, which have resulted in deadly clashes between farmers and herders in the state.
Governor Mbah emphasized that the practice of open grazing is outdated and that his intention to establish a ranch in the state has been misunderstood. He stressed that in the 21st century, there is no justification for continuing open grazing practices.
Speaking about his administration’s planned Public Ranch Management Agency, Mbah stated that the proposed ranch would feature modern facilities for animal husbandry and would not accommodate permanent residents. He clarified that traders would conduct their business and then leave.
“We have sometimes been accused of surreptitiously attempting to introduce something other than ranching. However, we must put an end to the practice of open grazing, which causes friction between our farmers and herders. Our goal is to see that it ends. In the 21st century, there is no reason we should encourage open grazing of cattle,” Governor Mbah said.
Governor Mbah highlighted the timeliness of the Public Ranch Management Agency law, signed on Wednesday, stating that it would ensure the cattle business in the state is conducted in a civil manner. He assured that adequate services, such as abattoirs and proper cattle markets, would be provided, emphasizing that these would not be residential areas.
“We will ensure that there are enough services, such as abattoirs and proper cattle markets, not where people will come and live,” he added.
