An Arewa group, the Arewa Economic Forum (AEF), has called on the Federal Government to provide grazing sites to enable herders rear their cattles peacefully, News About Nigeria reports.
The chairman of the forum, Ibrahim Shehu Dandakata, made this call while speaking at Abuja, stating that these will ensure the protection of both the cattles and the herders.
He noted that hardship and hunger have increased in the country due to banditry attacks on farmers, cattle rustling and kidnapping among others.
Dandakata maintained that provision of these safe grazing sites in the north is necessary.
According to him, it will help in combatting the food insecurity in the country.
“Whether we like it or not, the issue of hunger is real, and this is undoubtedly linked to the insecurity in the North, which has resulted in the abandonment of 60% of arable land in the region for more than five years.
“Consequently, the cost of protein has skyrocketed, and cattle rustling, which has escalated to banditry, significantly contributes to the people’s ordeal.
“Moreover, since crop farming and cattle rearing have been devastated by insecurity, it is imperative that all hands are on deck to overcome this situation.
“Although our solutions may not be exhaustive, they will undoubtedly pave the way forward.
“Firstly, we must establish safe enclaves for cattle rearing where you have water, security and all the facilities needed to make such enclaves operational.
“Noting, that the first victims of banditry are the Fulani’s; with bandit-Fulani’s victimizing non-bandit Fulani’s who are legitimate pastoralists, he said, “Such safe enclaves, in the form of grazing reserves, will provide a haven for Fulani, with the government offering necessary support,” he stated.
He also called for a collaboration between the private sector and NGOs to ensure adequate security and prevent encroachment by foreigners.
