No Forced Cattle Ranching in Benue, Governor Alia Assures Agitated Residents

To understand the deep-seated resistance to pastoral policy in Benue is to understand the state's modern history of displacement and agrarian disruption—critical issues that directly impact rural health, nutrition, safety, and community well-being. Governor Alia pointed out that organized animal husbandry is not an entirely alien concept to the state, recalling that during the Second Republic administration of Governor Aper Aku, designated areas such as Kyogen were legally mapped out for livestock development. He emphasized that even if these historical zones are reactivated, they could easily be utilized for breeding smaller ruminants like goats and sheep rather than cattle, particularly in areas like Vandeikya.

"If the people of the state do not want the ranching of cows here, the Federal Government is not forcing the state to have cow ranching. This is a people-oriented government, and everything we are doing must be people-directed," Alia declared, affirming the administration's commitment to democratic consensus.

By reassuring the public that President Bola Tinubu is committed to peaceful governance and respects sub-national autonomy, the governor sought to insulate his administration from accusations of compromising the state's security architecture. From a broader public welfare and safety perspective, the management of livestock corridors remains a critical determinant of regional stability, rural mental health, and food security. The state government’s cautious navigation of this federal initiative highlights the delicate balance between national agricultural policies and the intense local demand for safety, sovereignty, and sustainable agricultural practices.