You Break The Law And Face Justice – Ortom, Miyetti Allah Face Off In Benue State

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has revealed that he is ready for a legal battle with members of the Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore in the state.

Naija News understands the bone of contention between the Miyetti Allah group and the Benue State government arises from the law banning open grazing of animals in the state.

While the Miyetti Allah is insisting the law is targeted at members of their group and hampers their business, the Benue State government led by Governor Ortom insists the law has come to stay and is irrevocable.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, Miyetti Allah Secretary-General, Saleh Hassan said they are ready to take the Benue State government to court following the illegal seizures of cows belonging to some of their members which are said to have violated the ban on open grazing in Benue State.

However, Governor Ortom through his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Nath Ikyur dismissed the allegations of illegal activity by his government, adding that he was ready to meet the group in court.

The statement said the animals contravened the open grazing law in the state and the actions taken against them and their owners by the livestock guards were legal.

“There is a law in place. And it is very clear that anyone who allows his or her cattle to roam freely in the state violates the law.

When such herds are seized by the Livestock Guards, a time frame is given for owners to come forward and claim them,” he stated.

The Governor added that the state is open to anyone ready to do legal business within the provisions of the law.

“Everyone is free to ply his or her legitimate business in this state in so much as they do not infringe on the provisions of this law against open grazing,” he said.