Edo Governor Obaseki Advises Herders to Purchase Land for Ranching

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has reiterated that the prohibition on open grazing remains in effect throughout the state. In a statement, Obaseki warned that any herdsman found grazing in the state's forests without permission will face the full wrath of the law.

"Any herdsman interested in ranching should approach communities in the state to acquire land, rather than invading the forests indiscriminately," Obaseki said. He called for the collaboration and support of all interested parties to ensure a peaceful, secure, and prosperous Edo State.

The governor pledged his government's commitment to the safety and security of residents. "Open grazing is prohibited in Edo State," he emphasized. Obaseki urged residents to report the presence of any unauthorized herdsmen in their forests so that authorities can take action to remove them.

Why this matters: The issue of open grazing and herder-farmer conflicts has been a persistent challenge in Nigeria, often leading to violence and loss of lives and property. Governor Obaseki's stance on banning open grazing and advising herders to acquire land for ranching is part of ongoing efforts by state governments to find enduring solutions to this problem.

Obaseki's statement comes amidst ongoing discussions at both the state and federal levels on how to resolve the long-standing clashes between herders and farmers across Nigeria. The governor's position aligns with the view that ranching, rather than open grazing, is a more sustainable and peaceful approach to cattle rearing in the country.

Key Takeaways

• Edo State bans open grazing, requires herders to acquire land for ranching.
• Obaseki warns unauthorized herders in state forests will face legal consequences.
• Herders advised to collaborate with communities to obtain land for ranching.
• Obaseki's stance aligns with efforts to resolve herder-farmer conflicts in Nigeria.
• Ranching seen as a more sustainable and peaceful approach to cattle rearing.