The controversy erupted over the Federal Government's proposed pilot ranching scheme, with Governor Hyacinth Alia urging restraint and careful consideration, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged him to publicly declare whether his administration accepts or rejects the plan.
And as the debate rages on, Governor Alia's Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula, has defended his boss, saying he was fully engaged on the matter and consulting with relevant authorities and stakeholders before taking a decision. According to Kula, Governor Alia remained committed to protecting the interests of the state, but the PDP has rejected this explanation, accusing the governor of failing to provide specific answers being demanded by Benue people.
But what does this mean for Benue farmers and residents? The proposed ranches have sparked concerns over land ownership, farmers' livelihoods, and security, especially in a state that has struggled with attacks, displacement, and loss of ancestral lands.
The PDP, in a statement, has questioned the governor's appeal against taking the matter to the streets, saying citizens have every right to discuss issues affecting their land and livelihoods. The party has also faulted the governor for not involving farmers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and affected communities in the consultation process.
Governor Alia's administration has consistently regarded every Benue citizen as a critical stakeholder in the state's development, but this may not be enough to silence the opposition party. As the debate intensifies, one thing is certain: Governor Alia's leadership will be put to the test.
The proposed ranches are a key component of the Federal Government's plan to modernize livestock production in the country. But what exactly are these ranches, and how will they affect Benue's existing anti-open grazing law?
The PDP has also demanded the publication of all correspondence, proposals, memoranda, or understandings between the state and Federal Government on the pilot ranches, including proposed locations, sizes, ownership, beneficiaries, and safeguards for host communities.
As the controversy deepens, it remains to be seen how Governor Alia will navigate this sensitive issue. Will he prioritize the interests of Benue residents or side with the Federal Government's proposal?
“Silence is not consultation, secrecy is not strategy, and vague assurances are not a substitute for accountability,” the PDP's statement read.
So what's next for Benue and its proposed ranches? Will Governor Alia's administration come under pressure from the PDP and other stakeholders, or will he push through with the plans, despite the controversy?
The state's PDP chapter has also questioned why farmers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and affected communities have not been publicly involved in the consultation process.
The proposed pilot ranching scheme has been met with skepticism by many in Benue, who fear it may lead to land seizure, displacement, and insecurity.
The PDP has rejected any attempt by the Federal or State Government to seize, designate, or allocate community or ancestral land for grazing reserves or livestock settlements.
But Governor Alia's Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula, has urged caution, saying the Federal Government's proposal required thoughtful consideration rather than immediate public confrontation.
The PDP has demanded to know who the “relevant authorities” consulting with the governor were and why they have not been publicly involved.
The PDP has also demanded the publication of all correspondence, proposals, memoranda, or understandings between the state and Federal Government on the pilot ranches.
Governor Alia's administration has consistently regarded every Benue citizen as a critical stakeholder in the state's development.
The proposed ranches are a key component of the Federal Government's plan to modernize livestock production in the country.
The PDP has expressed its support for modern livestock production through privately owned ranches established through lawful acquisition of land between willing parties.
The party has also rejected any attempt by the Federal or State Government to seize, designate, or allocate community or ancestral land for grazing reserves or livestock settlements.
Benue's existing anti-open grazing law is a key piece of legislation that has been used to regulate the activities of herdsmen in the state.