The Nigerian Senate has called on the Benue State Government to fully enforce its existing Anti-Open Grazing Prohibition Law in response to escalating violence and insecurity in the state.
The resolution followed a motion presented by Senator Titus Tartenger Zam (Benue North-West) on the urgent need for the federal government to deploy troops to restore law and order in Gwer-West Local Government Area and other affected parts of the state.
Senator Zam highlighted the recent unrest in the area, where irate youths protested the continued killings of residents by armed bandits disguised as herders. The demonstrations escalated into violent attacks, leading to the burning of the local government secretariat, the palace of the paramount ruler, his private residence, and homes of other prominent figures in the community.
The lawmaker noted that the youths, angered by the murder of four persons in Gyaruwa community, had accused local leaders of failing to protect the people. He also faulted the Benue State Government for not strictly enforcing the anti-open grazing law, which, he argued, has led to undue pressure on National Assembly members from the state.
In response, the Senate directed the Benue State Government to implement the law without delay. Additionally, lawmakers called on the military to immediately establish a base in Gwer-West to prevent further attacks and restore peace to the troubled area.
This development underscores the ongoing security challenges in Benue State, which has been a flashpoint for clashes between farmers and armed herders despite existing legal measures against open grazing.
