No group has monopoly of violence –CAN

From Fred Ezeh, Abuja

Benue State governor, Mr. Samuel Ortom, yesterday cried for help from the authorities and private  interests to enable the state conquer the Fulani herdsmen, whose activities have led to frequent clashes with farmers resulting in loss of lives and property worth millions of naira.

The governor who hosted the officials of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) led by the President, Rev. Dr. Samson Ayokunle, in Government House, Markudi, also informed the officials that 12 out 23 local council areas in the state had been under the siege of  herdsmen for two years,

He listed the affected areas to include, Gwer-west, Kwande, Tarka , Buruku, Guma, Logo, Agatu, Gwer-East, Ukum.

He lamented that the inhuman activities of the marauding herdsmen had forced the locals out of their farmlands, resulting in food shortage, hunger, poverty and untold hardship on the people.

Governor Ortom said the government had begun the process of ending the incessant clashes through a pending bill in Benue House of Assembly that would put an end to open grazing in any part of the state.

He commended the Federal Government for periodic security reinforcement, which has drastically reduced the frequent attacks in the affected areas.

The bill, according to the governor, has passed through extensive open debate by all stakeholders in the state. Public hearing had also been conducted to harness the views and contributions of the all stakeholders for an all inclusive Bill that would be acceptable to all.

CAN president in his remarks explained that the essence of the visit was to identify with the victims of herdsmen attacks and the Christian community in the state as well as provide relief materials that would help them pick up their lives again.

He warned the Federal Government about the fast spreading menace of  the herdsmen/farmers clashes across the federation and the impending danger, if the “wicked” acts of the herdsmen were not checked.

While appealing to the victims to maintain peace and be law abiding, the CAN president reminded the government that no group, irrespective of  tribe and political affiliation had monopoly of violence.