Benue Governor Alia rejects federal ranching plans

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has rejected the Federal Government’s proposed ranching policy, stating that no land will be ceded to pastoralists without the consent of the state administration and its people. Speaking during a statewide thank-you tour, Alia emphasized that his administration will defend ancestral lands and will not permit external forces to take over territory for ranching.

To address ongoing insecurity and farmer-herder conflicts, the Governor announced several security measures. This includes the deployment of three military operational units from the newly created Nigerian Army 5 Division to strategic locations in the Sankera bloc, specifically Agu in Katsina-Ala, Anyiin in Logo, and Azendeshi in Ukum. Additionally, 30 motorcycles will be donated to security agencies to enhance patrols and rapid response.

During his engagements with traditional and religious leaders, Alia also warned against illegal mining activities and the sale of ancestral lands for mineral extraction. On infrastructure, he announced plans for a new dam with a 460-megawatt capacity to support water supply and electricity generation in the state.