Former Senate Minority Leader and Senator for Abia South, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has stated that herdsmen should not roam in the South-East, destroying farms and causing harm under the guise of conducting their business. Speaking on Channels TV, Abaribe emphasized that the Northern region of Nigeria has ample land for cattle ranching and pointed out that open grazing is no longer a globally accepted practice.
Discussing the ranching bill, which has passed its second reading in the National Assembly, Abaribe expressed confusion over the reluctance to adopt evident solutions. He highlighted that in the best cattle-producing countries, ranching is the standard method. He stressed that the Northern region has sufficient land for ranching, a fact that even historical leaders like Awolowo recognized when they established ranches.
Abaribe argued that Northern governors should acknowledge this reality and work towards implementing ranching solutions. He noted that many governors privately admit the need for ranching but fail to act publicly. He urged the President and his cabinet to address this issue decisively.
On the topic of banditry, Abaribe cited the Sultan of Sokoto, who had stated that 90% of the bandits were Fulani. Abaribe questioned the logic behind allowing cattle to roam as far south as Abia State, causing significant damage to local farms. He mentioned a recent SOS from youths in his local government, Obingwa, reporting that herders were destroying their farms.
Abaribe pointed out that in other parts of the world, countries benefit from international institutions bringing higher standards and economic advantages. He argued that the issue is not about grass but about individuals attempting to take over lands. He criticized the Buhari administration for supporting non-Nigerians, making the situation worse.
During a Senate debate on the ranching bill, some argued against the idea that everyone should return to their state of origin, claiming some people lacked a state of origin. Abaribe countered that such individuals are not Nigerians and reiterated the need for mutual respect among citizens.
Abaribe highlighted the difference between Igbo spare parts dealers and herders. He noted that Igbo businessmen buy goods, rent shops, and conduct their business peacefully without causing harm. In contrast, herders destroy farms and kill people, a behavior that should not be tolerated.
When asked about prosecutions for herders who kill farmers and destroy farms, Abaribe expressed frustration. He noted that while some arrests have been made, the culprits are often released. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of security agencies to address these issues, but their efforts are frequently hampered.
Abaribe mentioned that many states have passed laws against open grazing but lack their own security forces. They must rely on federal security agencies, which often fail to enforce these laws effectively. He stressed the need for a clear governmental commitment to stopping the killing of Nigerians, the takeover of lands, and the destruction of properties and farms.
He argued that the solution lies in everyone returning to their states of origin and establishing ranches there. He recalled a statement from the former National Chairman of the APC, Governor Ganduje, who said Kano State alone has enough land for all the cows in Nigeria. Abaribe pointed out that Botswana, a small country, manages more cattle than Nigeria, indicating that the issue is about political will and proper management.
Abaribe concluded that in the 21st century, it is unrealistic to live as people did in the 19th century. He warned that conflicts will continue unless the issue is addressed promptly. He also revealed that the National Assembly has not yet seen the details of President Bola Tinubu’s proposed Ministry of Livestock.
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