Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi.
Piqued by renewed attacks on some Communities by suspected herdsmen, Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has implored the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency halt the influx of foreign herdsmen into Nigeria.
The Governor who made his position known in Ukum Local Government Area of the State during the official launch of the Zakibian international Yam market also sued for the review of the Economic Community of West African Countries’ (ECOWAS) protocol which allows free movement for member countries to curtail free movement of herdsmen into the country.
Ortom expressed worry that if this is not checked, it will affect the economic diversification programme, lamenting the damage caused farmers by herders which he said has threatened food security in the area.
The Governor noted that between April and June this year, over 60 persons had been killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen and no fewer than 1000 persons are currently taken refuge in the Internally Displaced Camp (IDP).
Ortom called on the Federal Government to stop the influx of foreign herders. He called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the leadership of Miyetti Allah Kaural Hore for taking responsibility for the massacre in Benue State.
He reminded Vice President Yemi Osinnbajo of the promise he made on behalf of the Federal Government last year to rebuild the areas destroyed by suspected herdsmen to enable farmers return back to their ancestral homes.
