Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has assured residents that the Federal Government will not force the state or its people to accept cattle ranching against their wishes.
Alia gave the assurance while clarifying the Federal Government’s planned pilot ranching programme in the state, amid concerns over the initiative and its possible implications for communities.
The governor said the people of Benue had already made their position on ranching known, stressing that his administration remained committed to protecting their interests, maintaining peace and ensuring that government programmes reflected the wishes of the people.
“The Federal Government is not forcing the state to have cow ranching. Nobody is forcing anything on anybody at any stage of this,” he said.
The clarification followed growing public interest in the Federal Government’s announcement of a pilot ranching programme and questions over whether the initiative would lead to the establishment of cattle ranches in the state.
Alia also sought to clarify the meaning of the term “ranching”, saying it should not automatically be interpreted as cattle ranching.
According to him, Benue has other livestock, including goats and sheep, which could also be developed as sources of economic opportunities for residents.
He said the proposed programme should therefore be viewed within the broader context of livestock development rather than being automatically associated with the establishment of cattle ranches.
The governor urged residents to seek clarification from relevant authorities before reacting to government announcements, warning that acting on assumptions or spreading unverified information could create unnecessary tension.
He said the issue required proper understanding, particularly because of the strong public interest and sensitivity surrounding livestock production in the state.
“This is a people-oriented government, and everything we are doing must be people-directed,” Alia said.
The governor’s comments are expected to ease concerns among residents who have expressed reservations about the Federal Government’s ranching initiative and its potential impact on communities.
Benue has continued to emphasise policies aimed at regulating livestock production while protecting farming communities and maintaining peaceful coexistence between farmers and livestock owners.