The Delta State Government has launched a strategic initiative to profile herdsmen and cattle owners operating within the state in a bid to curb insecurity and foster peaceful coexistence.
This was made known by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Livestock and Inter-Ethnic Relations, Chief Jeffrey Azagba, during a stakeholder meeting with the Delta State chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Asaba on Wednesday.
“It is worrisome that armed herdsmen are causing havoc in some communities. Profiling them will help identify the bad eggs and ensure peace in our communities,” Azagba said.
He emphasized the importance of securing Delta’s agricultural sector: “Delta State is an agrarian state. We must scale up agricultural production without the fear of insecurity.”
Azagba issued a stern warning to those enabling criminality: “Anyone aiding or abetting criminal activities should either relocate or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.”
As part of the profiling process, he called on MACBAN to provide a detailed register of all its members.
He also reiterated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to eliminating threats to the state’s peace and development agenda.
Responding on behalf of MACBAN, the state secretary, Mustapha Suleiman, commended the government’s approach and pledged the association’s cooperation.
“We appreciate the government’s approach and will work hand in hand to ensure a peaceful coexistence,” Suleiman stated.
