A policy by President Muhammadu Buhari to use public funds to set up Ruga farming settlements for herdsmen in 12 states has been rejected across the country.Three major socio-cultural organisations in Benue State described the policy as a renewed plan to take over the people’s land and give it to Fulani of West Africa in the name of settlements for herdsmen.
The groups, namely Mdzough U Tiv, Ochetoha K’ Idoma and Omi Ny’ Igede, led by their leaders, Chief Edward Ujege, Amali Adoya Amali and Ben Okpa vowed that the people of Benue would resist the construction of the settlements even if it meant their extermination.
“Let it be known that the common man in Benue State will use all constitutional means to resist the illegal occupation of our land. The plan is to deprive the indigenes of their land, given to them by their fore fathers which is their main source of livelihood.
“We are, therefore, inviting the international community, well-meaning friends, all socio-cultural associations like Afenefere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Middle Belt Forum, South South Forum and the United Nations, all who value human lives to come to our assistance to avert this evil attempt by the Federal Government. We also call on all Benue indigenes at home and in the diaspora to rise up to the occasion,” the ethnic nationalities said.
Guardian Newspaper
