IBY
Peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to invest in the establishment of modern ranches across the country to enhance both security and economic productivity for herders and local communities.
This recommendation was made during deliberations on a motion introduced by Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro (Gombe South), addressing the escalating violence and displacement in Gombe State.
The motion, titled Urgent Need to Address Incessant Banditry Attacks/Killings and Displacement of Innocent Nigerians in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State, was prompted by a deadly attack on December 11, 2024. Armed assailants, suspected to be herders, raided several villages in Billiri Local Government Area—Sansani, Kalindi, Powishi, and Lawushi Daji. The attackers killed multiple residents, destroyed homes, food supplies, and livestock, leaving many people displaced.
Senator Yaro condemned the violence, calling it a violation of the constitutional rights to life and freedom of movement.
He urged the government to take swift action to safeguard citizens, emphasizing that the attacks had destabilized neighboring states like Taraba, Bauchi, and Adamawa, disrupted local agriculture, and severely impacted the economy.
In response, Senator Titus Zam (Benue North-West) proposed the creation of modern, federally funded ranches as a long-term solution to the recurring herders-farmers conflicts. He argued that this would not only address security concerns but also create economic opportunities, contributing to national stability.
He suggested a collaborative effort involving Senate Committees on Agriculture and National Security, the Ministry of Agriculture, and the new Ministry of Livestock to develop a comprehensive national framework for ranching
Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi) stressed the importance of state governments taking greater responsibility for security within their jurisdictions.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo) supported the call for federal intervention, urging the Senate to revisit its earlier resolution to hold a national public hearing on the security and economic challenges associated with the unregulated movement of people and activities under the ECOWAS treaty. Oshiomhole emphasized the need for clear laws to regulate economic activities and ensure public safety.
Following the attacks, the Senate observed a minute of silence in honor of the victims and called for immediate investigations into the violence.
The Senate directed the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and Director General of the DSS to apprehend and prosecute those responsible. Additionally, the Senate called for the establishment of a joint police and military task force in Billiri to prevent further violence and protect residents.
Senate also appealed to the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, NEMA, and the North East Development Commission to provide relief materials for the displaced victims. Relevant committees were tasked with ensuring the timely implementation of the resolutions and exploring long-term solutions to Nigeria’s growing insecurity.
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