Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Benue State Chapter has said there is no space in Benue State for pilot ranching proposed by the federal government.
Acting Chairman of CAN in the state, Rev. Jonathan Ugbede, disclosed this on Monday while receiving an award by the Legislative Writers, National Assembly Abuja.
Rev. Ugbede noted that Benue land was grossly inadequate for the rising population of the state and insisted that there was no space in the state to give out for pilot ranching
The acting chairman said the Church in Benue does not accept pilot ranching and that the government of Benue State was not even contemplating on the issue adding that there is a law in place on open grazing prohibition and ranches establishment which has not been repealed.
He said the people in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps are agitating to go to their ancestral homes and take possession of the ancestral areas.
Ugbede lauded the decision of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led federal government on the establishment of Division of the Nigerian Army in Benue State, stressing that the effort was not only commendable but also capable of combating all forms of insurgency which would pave way for peace and development in the state.
On the award he received, the Acting Chairman disclosed that he was humbled by the award even as he appreciated the Legislative Writers Forum of the National Assembly Abuja for finding him worthy of the award.
While dedicating the award to the Governor of Benue State, the Acting Chairman explained that the success recorded was as a results of the firm support of the Governor and sued for support to enable the Governor continue with his good work.
Earlier the President of the forum Mr. Odeh Agi, who was represented by Mr. O. Abraham lauded the exemplary leadership style of the Acting Chairman of CAN revealing that the forum was privately following him and has decided to come openly to identify with him saying the honour was to spur him to do more for the society.
Others speakers at the ceremony including the Acting Secretary of CAN Apostle General Mike Nkiri, the Chairperson of Women Wing of CAN, Mrs. Cecilia Amishiave and the YOWICAN leader, Barr. Bobby Tavershima, all appreciated the forum for the honour and assured him that more awards would come because of his leadership style.
