Return our IDPs to their homes before ranching, Benue leaders tell FG

Governors and senior officials in Benue State have called on the federal government to prioritize the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their homes before implementing a proposed ranching initiative in the region. The appeal comes amid growing concerns that the ranching plan could exacerbate existing tensions and fail to address urgent humanitarian needs. The three major socio-cultural organizations in Benue, Mzough U Tiv (MUT), Ochetoha k’Idoma, and Omi Ny’Igede, have expressed opposition to the federal government's pilot ranching scheme, arguing that the relocation of displaced communities should take precedence. During a press conference in Makurdi, representatives of these groups emphasized that the current conditions in the state make it inappropriate to allocate land for ranches without first ensuring the safety and resettlement of thousands of IDPs. Air Commodore Titus Agbecha, president general of MUT Worldwide and chairman of the Benue Socio-Cultural Organizations, noted that while the group was not opposed to modern ranching, the policy must not be imposed on local communities or come at the cost of food production. He highlighted that over 500,000 people in Benue are currently living in IDP camps, lacking shelter, farms, and livelihoods. According to Agbecha, these individuals are the rightful owners of the land being considered for ranching, making it unjust to proceed with land allocation without addressing their displacement. Agbecha also pointed out that many communities in Benue have been under siege for over five years, with villages attacked and residents killed or forced to flee. Establishing ranches under such circumstances, he warned, would be perceived as rewarding violence and dispossession. He stressed the need for comprehensive mediation, the restoration of occupied communities, and justice for victims before any ranching projects are initiated. The organizations further warned that large-scale land acquisitions for ranching could jeopardize food production in Benue, which remains one of Nigeria’s key agricultural regions. Agbecha reiterated that Benue is the nation’s food basket, and any program involving significant land use must not compromise food security. He urged the federal government to ensure that the safe return and resettlement of all IDPs becomes a top priority, emphasizing that peace must come before policy implementation. In addition to prioritizing the return of displaced persons, the groups called for genuine consultation, consent, and compensation for host communities before any ranching initiatives are launched. They clarified that they are not against modern ranching but insist it must be voluntary, community-driven, and not lead to the displacement of food producers. Agbecha also encouraged Benue residents to remain calm and abide by the law, assuring them that the socio-cultural organizations would continue engaging relevant authorities through dialogue. He concluded by reinforcing the importance of securing Benue farmers' lands for national food security.