Following the move by the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) to nullify the anti-open grazing law being adopted by southern states, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo state maintained his position on the law, stating that he will never back down on his decision.
Akeredolu, the Chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum and the Coordinator of the Southern Governors’ Forum disclosed this on Wednesday in a statement issued by his aide on Special Duties and Strategy, Dr Doyin Odebowale.
As chairman of the South West Governors’ Forum and the Coordinator of the Southern Governors’ Forum, Akeredolu said the governors would never back down on the law.
The Fulani herdsmen association through its secretary, Saleh Alhassan stated earlier that the anti-open grazing laws would negatively affect the peace and stability currently enjoyed in communities.
Akeredolu said the move by Miyetti Allah was an indication that the association was unbothered about the crimes perpetrated under the pretence of being herders.
While emphasizing that no bandit would be allowed to operate in the State under “any dubious guise”, he said the government has the “responsibility to implement the law for the benefit of the people of the state and those, who may share in their aspiration for development of their God-given space.”
“They claim to be above the law of any State in the Federation. They warn of the imminent breach of peace and promotion of pervasive anarchy if they are not allowed to ravage the sweat and toil of the long-suffering farmers who, apparently, don’t count for much in the scheme of things in their estimation.
“No part of our land will be given to foreigners who cling to a dubious regional protocol as an instrument validating dispossession. Let him practice his cultural practices on his father’s land. His likes will not be permitted to operate with impunity in Ondo State. We will defend our land.”
