FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, yesterday, inaugurated a committee to tackle the security challenges in the state.
The governor stated that the newly-established Livestock Control Committee would ensure peace, stability and development across the state.
According to him, the Livestock Control Committee has the mandate to stop the pervasive clashes between herders and farmers.
The 27-man committee, chaired by General Cecil Esekhaigbe (rtd), has Dr Ernest Uwakhikhe, AVM Charles Oghomwen, Mr Alex Oijiagba, Comrade Saturday Okhuakhua, Samuel Arabomem, Sylvanus Bawa, Mrs Aikefe Agbavboa, Dr Osagie Aibuedefe, SP Eneremen Sunday, Uche Nnatube, Sir Ignatius Enabulele, Ebaloghemen Godwin, Igbinigie Osaheni, Moses Edo, Haruna Muhammed, Dr Tony Ikpasaja, palace representative, Onojie of Uzea, Moses Etsu, Abdullahi Danna, Adum Harun, Erhauyi Alfred Iyekekpolor, Mr Akhimien Obomehelu, and Omoh Yusuf as members, while Mrs Diana Idahosa will serve as secretary.
At the inauguration, the governor emphasised the need to carry out a careful and thorough job so that we can have a good result. We can see what is happening today. Herders clashes here and there.
In his acceptance speech, General Esekhaigbe acknowledged the significant responsibility placed upon the committee.
He outlined the committee’s specific terms of reference, which include: regulating the movement of livestock; inspecting, certifying and registering all ranches; controlling the activities of herdsmen within various communities; providing security reports to the governor on the activities of cattle and livestock farmers within designated ranching areas; determining and recommending permit fees and renewal fees for cattle and livestock herdsmen/owners.
