Obaseki speaks on ‘providing’ grazing land for Fulani herdsmen in Edo

The Edo State Government has reacted to rumours that Governor Obaseki has agreed to provide grazing land for herders in the state.

It insisted that the state will not give out land for free to herders for grazing.

There has been clashes between farmers and herders across the country, especially with regards to open grazing.

In a statement issued via his Twitter handle on Thursday, Obaseki described as misleading and false, reports that he has agreed to provide grazing land for herders in the state.

“Our attention has been drawn to misleading and false media reports claiming that @GovernorObaseki has agreed to provide grazing land for herders in the state,” the post reads.

“Our position on the matter of grazing land is clear and has not shifted, which is that there is no free land for grazing in Edo. Grazing is an economic activity just like poultry and piggery or any other agric enterprise. Govt will not cede any land in the state for grazing. I have continually warned against the politicizing of security issues.”

Obaseki also accused some politicians in the state of trying to undermine peace.

“Thankfully, their plans have failed because of the pre-emptive actions taken by Governor Obaseki and the security agencies,” he said.

“We condemn, in the strongest terms, the current futile efforts by these defeated politicians in the state to cause mayhem and chaos among our people.

“All peace-loving people of Edo State are enjoined to dedicate this Lenten period to pray for peace at this difficult time in the life of our dear country.”