As the law prohibiting open grazing comes into effect soon in Taraba state, the governor, Arc. Darius Dickson Ishaku has reiterated that no group or section of the state is being targeted. He emphasised that the law was colour blind as it was not enacted to punish anyone tribe or religion.
In a statement signed by Senior Special Assistant, Public Affairs, Emmanuel Bello, the governor assured the state that the law meant well. The statement reads: “It is imperative to once again assure all citizens that the anti open grazing law is not directed at any tribe or religion. The issue it seeks to address is not restricted to any particular religion or ethnic group. Cow ownership in Taraba state is not the exclusive preserve of any religion, tribe or group. Basically, the law wants to, among other things, change the mode of production of cattle for better yield. This is a step towards modernisation of cattle rearing and it is keeping with the best tradition of cow production all over the world. Agriculture is undergoing a revolution. Antiquated means of production is giving way to better methods with the use of tractors and better seedlings among other things. This can happen to cattle rearing too. The ancient method of nomadic voyages has failed to give better milk production or even beef. Cows are leaner and less productive when made to go through the rigours of long distant treks. Elsewhere on the globe, ranching has since become the best form of attending to the need of cattle. Even here in Nigeria, top cow owners have seen the wisdom in ranching. In Taraba, cow owners on the Mambilla have been doing a form of ranching dating into the past. It is nothing new.”
Ishaku further noted that the law, when implemented, would take into cognisance all the observations of stakeholders. He said, “this law did not happen arbitrarily. We had public hearings and collated all the views, concerns and inputs of stakeholders. The public hearings were done to enhance synergy between government and cow rearers for a better people centered law.”
He urged citizens not to fall cheap to politicians seeking to ride on the back of a national challenge to score cheap points. He said government is doing everything possible to address the higher issues of development that concerned all. He said, “we are providing roads, hospitals , reviving industries and ensuring the security of lives and properties. These are beyond any religion or tribe as they are done for everyone. Our roads do not discriminate the users. Hospitals do not ask for religions or tribes. This is a government for all.”
