CAN Kicks Against Proposed Pilot Ranching In Benue

…Insists anti-open grazing law has not been repealed

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State, on Monday, said there is no space in the state for pilot ranching proposed by the Federal Government.

The Acting Chairman of CAN in the state, Rev. Jonathan Terwase Ugbede, disclosed this while receiving an award by the Legislative Writers, National Assembly, Abuja.

Rev. Ugbede noted that Benue land was grossly inadequate for the rising population of the state and insisted that there was no space to give out for the programme.

The Acting CAN Chairman informed that the Church in Benue does not accept pilot ranching and that the government of Benue State was not even contemplating on the issue, adding that there is a law in place on open grazing prohibition and ranch establishment which has not been repealed.

He noted with emphasis that what the people of Benue want now is the safe return of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) living in camps to go to their ancestral homes and take possession of the ancestral areas.

Rev. Ugbede lauded the decision of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government to create 5 Divisions in Benue State, stressing that the effort was not only commendable but also capable of combating all forms of insurgency, which would pave the way for peace and development in the state.

On the award he received, the Acting CAN Chairman said he was indeed humbled by the award, even as he appreciated the Legislative Writers Forum of the National Assembly, Abuja, for finding him worthy of the award.

While dedicating the award to the Governor of Benue State, the Acting Chairman explained that the success recorded was as a result of the firm support of the Governor and sued for support to enable the Governor continue with his good work.

Earlier, the President of the forum, Mr Odeh Agi, who was represented by Mr. O. Abraham, lauded the exemplary leadership style of the Acting Chairman of CAN, noting that the forum was privately following him and had decided to come openly to identify with him, saying the honour was to spur him to do more for the society.

Other speakers at the ceremony included the Acting Secretary of CAN, Apostle General Mike Nkiri, the Chairperson of Women Wing of CAN, Mrs Cecilia Member Amishiave and the YOWICAN leader, Barr. Bobby Tavershima all appreciated the forum for the honour done the Acting Chairman and assured him that more awards would come because of his style of leadership.