From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Benue state Security Council has has given an ultimatum to armed herders and invaders to immediately leave Benue State or face arrests and prosecution.
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of Security Council meeting held at the EXCO Secretariat Government House Makurdi on Tuesday February 20, 2024.
The meeting was part of the efforts of Benue State Government to find lasting peace in the State following the influx of armed herders in the communities in the state.
Briefing newsmen after the meeting, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Hyacinth Alia, (CPS), Kula Tersoo, said after thorough deliberation, the meeting reached certain resolutions were reached to be implemented as a way of ensuring peace.
The meeting pointed out “That the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law 2017 (Anti Open Grazing Law) is still in force.
“That armed herders, invaders to immediately leave Benue State.
“That those who invited the armed herders, invaders should immediately desist from such act.
They also stated at those operating open grazing within the State are given two weeks’ ultimatum with effect from 21st February, 2024 to desist from doing that.
They also agreed to set up a seven-man committee to ensure the enforcement of the ultimatum given urging that security agencies, traditional rulers and the general public should intensify efforts to uncover for prosecution any person in the habit of collaborating or inviting armed herders into the State.
The Council therefore urged the general public to remain calm and security conscious as the State Government is making every conceivable effort to ensure adequate security of lives and property in the State.
Kula also told newsmen that the Council also reviewed the hardship and looming food insecurity in the Nation and urged the people of Benue State to remain calm as efforts are being put in place to ameliorate the situation.