According to Vanguard, The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has strongly criticized Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) for opposing the Ranching Bill currently before the Senate, labeling its stance as potentially disastrous. Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the National President of MBF, expressed these sentiments in a statement over the weekend, reacting to comments made by MACBAN's National President, Baba Ngelzarma, on national television.
Dr. Pogu highlighted that the Bill, sponsored by Senator Titus Zam (APC, Benue North West), aims to establish ranches for herders in their respective states of origin under the oversight of the National Ranches Commission. This initiative, according to Pogu, seeks to address the longstanding issue of violent clashes between farmers and herders over land use.
He pointed out key provisions of the Bill, such as strict regulations on cattle movement and the penalties for violations, which are crucial for mitigating criminal activities linked to herders. Dr. Pogu emphasized that these measures are essential in curbing the reign of terror inflicted upon farming communities across the Middle-Belt and other parts of Nigeria.
Citing the Global Terrorism Index's classification of herdsmen as the fourth deadliest terrorist organization globally, Dr. Pogu condemned MACBAN's narrow-minded opposition to the Bill based on its Benue sponsorship. He argued that restricting herders to their states of origin does not infringe upon their constitutional rights but rather aims to restore security and food sufficiency in Nigeria.
Furthermore, Dr. Pogu criticized MACBAN's disregard for the hardships faced by farmers due to cattle invading farmlands and destroying crops, contributing significantly to food insecurity in the country.
The Middle Belt Forum reaffirmed its support for the Ranching Bill and called for broader stakeholder cooperation to ensure its passage and effective implementation for the benefit of all Nigerians.