Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom has backed the Southern Governors Forum on its stance to enact laws to ban open grazing of livestock in the region.
Southern governors on Monday announced September 21, 2021, as the deadline for the promulgation of anti-open grazing law among its member states.
Ortom in a statement sent to DAILY POST by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase described the decision as a bold and patriotic move that will put an end to the lingering crisis caused by armed herdsmen.
The governor also supported the Southern Governors Forum for their position on the rotation of the 2023 Presidency to the South region.
Ortom believes that this will give all Nigerians a sense of belonging and reduce tension across the country.
He noted that only equity, fairness, and justice can strengthen the unity of Nigeria.
The Governor also commended his counterparts in Southern Nigeria for backing their May 11 Asaba declaration against open grazing with the resolve to legally prohibit nomadic cattle rearing.
Ortom stressed his call on the Federal Government to respect the 1999 Constitution (as amended) regarding fundamental human rights, the rule of law, and federal character.
He restates his commitment against injustice and quotes Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr who stated that “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.”
Governor Ortom expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger as a great nation.
