Benue Groups Reject FG's Grazing Reserves Plan

The Nigeria Catholic Diocesan Priests Association, led by Chairman Reverend Fr. Joseph Terfa Beba, and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State have publicly rejected the Federal Government's proposal to create grazing reserves in the state. In statements issued on Thursday, both groups expressed their opposition, emphasizing that the decision was made without proper consultation with the state government.

The association's statement, titled "Our Land is not for Sale," highlighted concerns over potential land grabbing and the negative impact on local communities, which have already faced violence and displacement. They asserted that Benue is primarily an agrarian state, making ranching impractical and unacceptable.

The PDP echoed these sentiments, labeling the government's plan as provocative and unacceptable, arguing that land should be acquired lawfully for ranching purposes. Both groups called for respect for the constitutional rights of the Benue people and urged the government to engage with local leaders to address the issue of displaced persons.