Mr Terver Akase explained that the Benue State Security Council only suspended the operations of the state Livestock Guards for two weeks.

Gov Ortom

The government of Benue state has clarified that the law against open Grazing still stands despite suspending the activities of the implementing agents, the Benue Livestock Guards.

The state government through the Special Adviser on Media Mr. Terver Akase yesterday said It had become pertinent to clarify the misconceptions regarding the decision of the Benue State Security Council to suspend operations of the state Livestock Guards for two weeks.

He explained that the Benue State Security Council only suspended the operations of the state Livestock Guards for two weeks.

He said the suspension of the Livestock Guards was only for a grace period which became necessary to allow for a reduction in the influx of cattle into the state.

“As Governor Samuel Ortom stated while briefing the press at the end of the State Security Council meeting of Tuesday, April 11, 2023, the action is part of measures to ensure that all those who invaded the state with cattle leave, so that Benue people would have peace and go about their legitimate and lawful businesses.

“We must stress that the enforcement of the Benue State Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law is still in full force and anyone who flouts the law at the expiration of the two weeks grace period will be apprehended and prosecuted.

“Governor Ortom once again appreciates the people of Benue State for their support since the enforcement of the law commenced in 2017,” the statement read in part.