The Nigerian Senate has urged the Federal Government to fund the establishment of modern ranches across the country as part of efforts to enhance security and promote economic productivity for herders and local residents.
The Red Chamber also resolved to enact a law to define the boundaries of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty, aiming to address growing security concerns arising from the region’s open borders.
These resolutions were adopted following a motion of urgent national importance titled, “Urgent Need to Address Incessant Banditry Attacks, Killings, and Displacement of Innocent Nigerians in Some Villages in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State,” moved by Senator Anthony Yaro (Gombe South).
Presenting the motion, Senator Yaro decried the December 11 attacks on villages in Billiri Local Government Area, where suspected herders allegedly killed several residents, burned homes, and destroyed food supplies and livestock.
The affected villages include Sansani, Kalindi, Powishi, and Lawushi Daji, leaving scores displaced.
“The government must urgently address these recurring attacks that destabilise not just the affected communities but also threaten the peace of neighbouring states such as Taraba, Bauchi, and Adamawa,” Yaro stated.
Citing Sections 33 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee citizens’ rights to life and freedom of movement, the senator stressed that the violence has disrupted food sufficiency and major economic activities in the region.
In his contribution, Senator Seriake Dickson emphasised the urgent need for modern ranches to address the long-standing herder-farmer crisis.
“Ranching is a legitimate business opportunity that addresses the economic plight of herders, many of whom trek long distances from Sokoto to Lagos or Bayelsa,” Dickson noted, urging the Federal Government to adopt a comprehensive nationwide ranching strategy.
He argued that modern ranching would not only enhance security but also improve livestock management, boost local economies, and promote lasting peace across the country.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole added that defining the boundaries of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty is critical to safeguarding the rights of Nigerians.
He underscored the link between criminal activities and the exploitation of Nigeria’s open borders by some individuals.
“It is essential to enact laws that regulate movement and economic activities to prevent security threats,” Oshiomhole stated.
The Senate further observed a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased victims and tasked security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, to investigate the attacks, arrest the perpetrators, and ensure their prosecution.
Additionally, the Red Chamber called for the creation of a joint police and military task force in Billiri Local Government Area to prevent further attacks.
In response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the violence, the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the North East Development Commission were urged to provide relief materials to displaced persons.
The Senate also mandated its Committees on Legislative Compliance, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to monitor the implementation of these resolutions and devise lasting solutions to the growing insecurity in the region.
The Senate reiterated its commitment to addressing the root causes of the herdsmen crisis and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.