Benue community leader decries rising insecurity, calls for stricter enforcement of anti-open grazing law

DDM News

Chief Iorbee Ihagh has raised alarm over worsening insecurity in Benue State.

He blames the situation on relaxed enforcement of the anti-open grazing law, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

Chief Ihagh is the President General of Mzough U Tiv Worldwide.

He also chairs Mzough U Tiv (MUT), Ochetoha K’Idoma, and Ominy’Igede.

These are the three main socio-cultural groups in Benue State.

Chief Ihagh shared his concerns about the state’s security,  Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

He described how herders are now seen openly moving cattle across communities.

He recalled a recent journey to Gboko where cattle blocked the highway.

He said such incidents were rare under the previous administration.

According to him, the former government took enforcement of the anti-grazing law seriously.

The new administration has relaxed that enforcement, he alleged.

This has encouraged herders to graze openly even in the state capital, Makurdi.

Chief Ihagh said the people had expected a new strategy to tackle the problem.

However, no alternative approach has been implemented since enforcement was reduced.

He expressed disappointment at the misuse of security resources.

Some security personnel now serve as domestic aides, he claimed.

Vehicles meant for impounding cattle have been reassigned to Benue Links.

These vehicles now transport luggage instead of supporting enforcement.

He said this shift undermines the fight against open grazing.

Chief Ihagh recalled that strict enforcement had once yielded positive results.

Violators were punished, and herders avoided central communities.

In the past, cattle grazing was confined to remote areas.

Fines were paid to retrieve impounded cattle, deterring further violations.

Now, herders operate openly in populated areas without consequence.

He stressed the urgent need to revive and apply the law strictly.

Communities across Benue are demanding immediate action from the government.

The law must be fully enforced again to protect lives and property.

Chief Ihagh said security resources must serve the public interest.

He urged leaders to prioritise the safety of Benue people over politics.

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