Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed, has ordered the immediate suspension of the enforcement of the state’a livestock right-of-way policy, following concerns raised by farmers, livestock owners and other stakeholders over its implementation.
Mohammed gave the directive yesterday at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Governor’s Office in Bauchi to address concerns surrounding the enforcement of the Executive Order and state legislation providing designated right-of-way for livestock and other road users.
Governor Mohammed also accepted responsibility for the shortcomings recorded in the implementation of the policy, particularly the inadequate sensitisation of affected communities before the enforcement commenced.
The meeting was attended by representatives of farmers and livestock associations, traditional institutions, security agencies as well as relevant ministries, departments and agencies.
The governor explained that the policy was introduced to reduce the recurring clashes between crop farmers and livestock owners, especially during the farming season.
According to him, the provision of designated cattle routes was inspired by similar initiatives in other states and was intended to provide a lasting solution to challenges affecting both farmers and livestock owners.
However, he expressed concern over the use of chemicals in clearing livestock routes, warning that such methods could harm animals and undermine the objectives of the policy.
Mohammed also said the timing of the enforcement was inappropriate, as farmers were approaching the harvest period and could suffer losses if chemicals were applied to their farms.
He said the government should have adequately sensitised farmers and livestock owners before commencing enforcement, stressing that early and accurate communication was essential to preventing misunderstanding and unnecessary tensions.
The governor specifically faulted the Ministry of Agriculture and the Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme (BASDP) for failing to sufficiently communicate the policy and its implications to affected stakeholders.
He consequently directed the Commissioner for Agriculture to immediately halt implementation and consult with relevant stakeholders on a more acceptable approach to the policy.
Mohammed said adequate preparations and sensitisation should be undertaken before any renewed enforcement, possibly ahead of the next farming season.
He stressed the need for stronger cooperation between farmers and livestock owners during both the dry and rainy seasons to protect livelihoods, sustain agricultural productivity and promote peaceful coexistence.
The governor further directed relevant authorities to ensure strict compliance with agricultural regulations while adequately informing affected communities before introducing or enforcing the order.
COURTESY: Leadership
