***Enhance Livestock Productivity also
The Nigerian Senate has called on the Federal Government to fund the establishment of modern ranches nationwide, aimed at improving safety and economic productivity for both herders and local residents.
The lawmakers also resolved to enact a law that will define the limits of economic activities under ECOWAS treaty
The resolutions came during a deliberation on a motion of urgent national importance presented by Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro (Gombe South), titled: “Urgent Need to Address Incessant Banditry Attacks/Killings and Displacement of Innocent Nigerians in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State.”
In his motion, Senator Yaro decried the recent attacks on December 11, 2024, where armed assailants, suspected to be herders, stormed Sansani, Kalindi, Powishi, and Lawushi Daji villages in Billiri Local Government Area, killing several residents, destroying property, and displacing scores of people. Houses, food supplies, and livestock were razed during the attack.
He cited Sections 33 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution, which protect the rights to life and freedom of movement, calling on the government to fulfill its duty to safeguard lives and property. He also highlighted how the violence destabilized neighboring states such as Taraba, Bauchi, and Adamawa, while disrupting food sufficiency and economic activities in the region.
Senator Seriake Dickson advocated for the establishment of federally funded modern ranches, describing ranching as a sustainable solution to the herdsmen crisis.
He argued that the initiative would enhance security, create economic opportunities, and resolve the longstanding conflicts between herders and host communities.
“Ranching is a legitimate business opportunity that could transform livestock management in Nigeria, while also ensuring the safety of both herders and locals,” Dickson stated.
He proposed a collaborative approach involving the Senate Committees on Agriculture and National Security, alongside the Ministry of Agriculture and the newly established Ministry of Livestock, to develop a nationwide ranching framework.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole echoed the need for decisive action, urging the Senate to revisit its prior resolution to hold a national public hearing to address the security and economic challenges posed by unregulated movement and activities under the ECOWAS framework.
He stressed the importance of enacting laws to regulate economic activities and define individual rights, ensuring public safety.
The senate therefore observed a minute’s silence in honor of the victims.
It also urged the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and Director General of the DSS to investigate the attacks, arrest the perpetrators, and prosecute them.
It called for the immediate establishment of a joint police and military taskforce in Billiri Local Government Area to prevent further killings.
It requested the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, NEMA, and the North East Development Commission to provide relief materials to displaced victims.
Theawmakers mandated the Senate Committees on Legislative Compliance, Police Affairs, and National Security to ensure compliance with these resolutions and develop long-term solutions to the insecurity.
The Senate’s focus on modern ranching and legislative solutions underscored its commitment to addressing the root causes of conflicts, safeguarding lives, and promoting economic development across the country.