Asema Achado, the member representing Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has called for the immediate enforcement of the Benue State anti-open grazing law to curb the persistent killings and violence in the state.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Mendah Manasseh, Achado stressed the need for strong action against marauding herders, whose activities continue to devastate local farming communities.
The anti-open grazing law, enacted by the previous administration under Governor Samuel Ortom, was designed to protect Benue farmers by restricting the movement of cattle and promoting ranching.
However, Achado expressed concern that since Governor Hyacinth Alia assumed office in May 2023, the law has not been fully enforced, contributing to the ongoing insecurity.
Achado expressed sadness over the frequent attacks in Gwer West Local Government, which he attributed to suspected Fulani militia. He also decried Governor Alia’s silence on the issue, urging him to explain why the anti-open grazing law has remained dormant despite the continued suffering of the people.
“The relentless violence must end. Our farmers are the backbone of our economy, yet they live in constant fear,” Achado said, stating the need for swift action to protect lives and livelihoods.
The lawmaker also called on the state government to fulfill its responsibility to safeguard the people and maintain law and order.
He pointed out that at the height of the herder crisis, the state had ordered all herdsmen to vacate the area, with Deputy Governor Sam Ode announcing earlier this year the full implementation of the anti-open grazing law. Despite this, attacks have continued unabated.
Achado revealed that he and other members of the Benue State Caucus in the National Assembly have sponsored bills and raised motions in both the Senate and the House of Representatives to address the security crisis. These efforts, he said, have resulted in increased financial support from the Bola Tinubu administration to bolster security efforts in the state.
He urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to adopt a comprehensive security strategy that includes community engagement and partnerships with law enforcement agencies to create tailored approaches for combating insecurity.
Achado finally consoled the families of those who have lost loved ones to herder-related violence and encouraged the Tyoshin community and others affected to remain peaceful and resilient, stating that unity and collaboration between the government and local communities would provide the hope and solutions needed to end the violence.
