RUGA AND THE TRIUMPH OF THE PEOPLE'S WILL

The suspension of the Ruga project came as a pleasant news to opponents of the planned Ruga Resettlement Project meant to resettle Fulani herdsmen with their cattle across different states of the country including Benue.

This is a good development especially given the unfortunate antics of a Presidential Aide to overzealous cast aspersions on the Governor and Government of Benue State.

This is despite Governor Ortom's respect for the Office and person of the President who remains the father of all Nigerians. Governor Ortom being a matured and clear thinking leader with respect for constituted authority would not allow himself and the State to be positioned on a collision course with the FG as he believes in exploring the mechanisms of consultation, dialogue, consensus building, due process, rule of law and articulating the position of his people on issues affecting them.

The FG's announcement of the suspension of the controversial project is commendable and should be applauded by all. A listening Govt should be able to gather the political will at all times to listen to the wishes of the people.

Benue people under the dynamic leadership of Gov. Samuel Ortom are peace loving Nigerians and welcome other ethnic nationalities to ply their trade within the confines of peace, rule of law and respect for constituted authorities. The people have no discrimination against any ethnic group or religious inclination.

In the livestock sector, the Benue state Anti Open Grazing Law and Ranching establishment Law has already adequately provided for both farmers and herders to engage in their business in an atmosphere of peace, mutual respect and understanding. It is on record that the National Economic Council, NEC, The Northern Governor's Forum and other devekopmental oriented minded interest groups have all endorsed ranching of livestock as a workable solution to the farmers herders clashes. Cattle roaming freely on farmlands and roads in this age should have no place in a forward moving society.

Nigerians should continue to peacefully articulate their views on governance and policy issues devoid of ethnic, religious, political and social limitations. Kudos to the government for once again demonstrating political will and sensitivity to the feelings of the people.

Abrahams Kwaghngu
Principal Special Assistant
Special Duties to the Governor

Democracy won