By Philip Odofin.
Kogi State Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, has expressed deep concern over the recent wave of killings and kidnappings in Yagba East and Yagba West Local Government Areas, describing the situation as “a grave threat to the peace and security of our communities.”
In a statement issued through his media office during a mid-week visit to his hometown in Yagba West, Dr. Bolarin called on the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to urgently embrace modern ranching practices as a sustainable solution to farmer–herder conflicts.
He condemned the destruction of farmlands by open grazing, calling the practice “barbaric and heartless.”
The incidents of violence and abduction in Yagba land are unacceptable,” Dr. Bolarin said. “Ranching remains the only viable path to lasting peace and the protection of both farmers and herders. We must move away from open grazing, particularly the reckless trespass on farmers’ fields, which too often leads to confrontation.”
The Commissioner specifically appealed to the association’s state chairman, Alhaji Umar Yusuf, to rein in members allegedly involved in attacks and kidnappings.
Eyewitness reports of herders invading farmlands and opening fire on innocent farmers—where three policemen and two vigilante members lost their lives—are deeply troubling,” he added. “We cannot continue to allow lawlessness to endanger lives and livelihoods.”
Dr. Bolarin urged all Fulani herders and cattle owners to comply with state regulations on livestock management, warning that the government will not hesitate to enforce stricter measures against offenders.
The government is considering stronger legislative action, including severe penalties for those who disregard the law,” he cautioned. “Peaceful coexistence is possible only when every group respects the law of the land.”
