A faith-based group, Arewa Christian and Indigenous Pastor’s Association (ACIPA), has kicked against the establishment of cattle colonies and grazing reserves for herdsmen.
The Minister of Agriculture, Chief Audu Ogbe, recently announced Federal Government’s proposal to establish the cattle colonies as part of measures to minimise the incessant clashes between the herdsmen and farmers.
Rev. Luke Shehu, ACIPA National President, at a press conference on Wednesday in Jos, argued that cattle rearing was a private business and should be left to those engaged it.
“Government has no business purchasing land for individuals to graze their animals. People who seek to breed cows should buy their lands and grow their grass to feed them.
“Nigeria is not among the top 20 nations in the global cattle business, beef exportation and even cattle inventory. None of the nations with high cattle activities has made it a state matter. Nigeria should not be different,” he said.
The President advised those in government to be fair to all and strive to avoid actions that could be misinterpreted by cynics in the society.
He also criticised federal government’s call on state governments to allocate lands for cattle colonies, and urged government to consult widely before taking a final decision on the matter.
“Our ancestors were largely nomads and arable farmers, but with modernisation, we have adopted modern trends in farming to promote land conservation. Herdsmen should equally embrace modern strategies so as to minimise controversies,” he said.
Shehu advised state governors against surrendering farmlands for use as cattle colonies, saying that such step could lead to hunger among the rural dwellers. (NAN)
