Nigeria News
IGP Tells Governors What To Do Before Implementing Anti-Grazing Law
The Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Ibrahim Idris, on Wednesday, advised state governors to establish cattle ranches before enacting anti-grazing laws, to avoid conflict between farmers and herdsmen.
The IGP gave the advice at the Northern States Stakeholders’ Security Summit, tagged `National Building: Security Challenges and the Need for Inclusive Approach’ which held in Kaduna state.
Naija News understands the police chief at the event, also reiterated the commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to ending all forms of security challenges in the country.
“It is my humble suggestion that to reduce the incidence of clashes between farmers and herders in Nigeria, State Governments should endeavour to establish grazing ranches in their various states before enacting laws to prohibit open rearing and grazing.
“It is when grazing ranches are established that herders can be arrested and punished for rearing and grazing on the open places.
“Doing so, I am of the opinion that it will make the law acceptable by all the parties concerned and other critical stakeholders in that all important sector.
“It will do us good if we avoid the hasty formulation and implementation of such laws across the country in the interest of peace and unity.’’
“It must however be noted that Framers/Herders clashes did not start with this administration, yet this administration has taken more measures to end the crisis than any previous regime,” he said.
The IGP also spoke on the recent killings in Zamfara state, highlighting efforts put in place to forestall any such future occurrence in any part of the country.
“Some arrests have already been made and the outcome of investigation will be made known soonest,’’ he said.
“Over 50 AK 47 Rifles, 20 English made pistols, two 5MG Rifles, over 1000 rounds of AK 47 Rifles and other assorted pistols, ammunition were recovered from them.
“These recoveries raise serious alarm on the number of illegal arms and ammunition at the disposal of criminals and bandits.
“This must not be allowed to continue especially as the 2019 general election is fast approaching.’’