By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
The National President of Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), Hon. Khalil Mohammed Bello has appealed to the federal government to use its association in fostering peace, unity and to resolve farmers/herders conflicts through non kinetic approach .
Hon. Bello also urged the federal government to henceforth consult the beneficiaries or target groups of its N50 billion proposed Fulako Initiative Concept project aimed at rehabilitating and rebuilding cattle routes and grazing paths as well as designated abattoirs.
The National President, who made the call on Saturday during a press conference held at the NUJ Press Center Maiduguri, further said the initiative is good and it is for the general interest of nomads across the country.
He however lamented that from the design down to the setting up of the committee members and announcement of the funds set aside through the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security in collaboration with the Office of the Vice President Kashim Shettima, lack constituency or target groups participation and involvement.
He suggested that there was need for consultations and contacts with the leadership’s of the Kulen Allah Cattle Readers Association of Nigeria who know better the immediate demands and needs of their members which include grazing land, cattle routes and sources of water supply for their livestock feeds and food palliatives.
He also enjoined governments and security agents to endeavour to intervene in the herdsmen/farmers conflict by demarcating and rehabilitating the already existing grazing paths and cattle routes that farmers and other developers have trespassed on and taken almost 60%-70% of the reservations resulting in the prevailing situation and conflict.
The National President however assured judicious utilization of the funds and facilities if made available to the Kulen Allah members across the country while pledging to continue to preach the gospel of peace and unity among the members across the country and bring to an end the lingering insurgency and banditry or alleged abduction by Fulani herdsmen with the support and cooperation of the federal and state governments.
Bello further urged members to refrain from public protest while commending exceptional leadership of His Excellency, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum’s initiative of establishing a committee to foster peace between cattle rearers and farmers in the state
He also commended the management of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and its extensive efforts to implement development projects and support internally displaced persons in the region.
“This commendation stems from positive feedback from our members and reflects the commission’s dedication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of rebuilding and restoring hope in the affected areas.
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