Benue Groups Reject FG's Ranching Scheme Amid IDP Crisis

Socio-cultural groups in Benue State, including Mdzough U Tiv (MUT), Ochetoha K’Idoma, and Omi Ny’Igede, have publicly rejected the federal government's proposed ranching scheme, which aims to establish ranches in Benue, Nasarawa, and Plateau states. Air Commodore Titus Agbecha (retd), president-general of MUT and chairman of the three groups, expressed concerns during a press conference in Makurdi.

He highlighted that over 500,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) currently reside in camps across Benue State, lacking homes, shelter, and livelihoods. The groups argue that discussing new land use for ranches is unjust while the landowners remain displaced.

They called for the federal government to prioritize the safe return and resettlement of IDPs before implementing any pilot schemes. The groups also emphasized that any ranching program must involve proper consultation, consent, and compensation with host communities, asserting that land issues cannot be imposed and must not undermine food production.