Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has again rejected the reopening of grazing routes and grazing reserves being planned by the Federal Government in Benue State.
President Muhammadu Buhari a few days ago, directed a review of grazing routes and grazing reserves in 25 states of the federation with a directive that it be handled with “dispatch.”
Governor Ortom who spoke in Yandev, Gboko Local Government Area during the burial of Mr Emmanuel Amaatimin said Benue people reject the policy in its entirety.
In his own words, the Governor maintained; “Let the President know, that Benue State has the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law in place and we are not going to allow any other thing outside this in Benue.
“In the first place, the Federal Government and the President do not have the right to preside over the land of Benue State. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria allows Governors to hold in trust the land that belongs to the States.
“If the President wants land in Benue, he will seek my permission and I will in turn seek the consent of Benue people. The President cannot say that cattle routes and grazing areas will be designated in Benue State. We say no to it and I say that on behalf of Benue people,” Governor Ortom emphasised.
Governor Ortom wondered why President Muhammadu Buhari has not come out to condemn the actions of the Fulanis in the country, saying he should be the President for all and not only Fulanis.
While condoling the bereaved family, Governor Ortom prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest and the family the fortitude to bear the loss.
