The commissioner of police Delta state, Ari Muhammed Ali, on Thursday held a very crucial interactive section with farmers/herders in Delta state.
The meeting was attended by farmers and herders,. His Excellency, the governor of Delta state Sen.. Dr Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa was represented by Hon David Tonwe, director general on security in Delta state.
The DG in his speech made it clear that the purpose for the crucial meeting was to discuss issues that would bring about peaceful co-existence between the herders and farmers.
He said that It’s very important for them to live in peace and set a good example for others to follow.
Suggestions were raised by both the herders and farmers, which include
1. statistics of cows that enter the state,
2. all herders should have an Identity card,
3. underage boys should not be allowed to carry cattle
4. night grazing should be banned completely,
5. herders that live and stay in Delta should be differentiated from herders that come from neighboring state
6. Herders were also advised to stop taking their cows to people’s farms
The commissioner of police made it known that as much as the cattle are important to the herders, farm produce are also important to farmers, so there is need to deliberate and see how these issues can be resolved.
After listening to the complaint/suggestions of both the herders and farmers, the commissioner of Police made it clear that Delta state police command will not tolerate anybody bearing AK47 rifles in the name of cattle rearing as herdsmen are not known to carry AK47 rifle.
He said these set of people are criminals and must be treated as such. He said they should not be tolerated, because tolerating them means adding to the already tensed security situation in the country.
He advised all stake holders present, that the activities of these herders who bear arms must be monitored, checkmated and reported to the police immediately.
The commissioner of Police Delta State Command CP ARI MUHAMMED ALI assured all that criminal minded herders will never have a free ride under his watch, as they will be made to face the wrath of the law.
