One Plateau, One Voice has called on the Plateau State Government to ban open grazing and promote ranching as an alternative, arguing that the move could help address disputes over farmland, crop destruction and insecurity in rural communities.
The group said its position aligned with the call by the Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) for a ban on open grazing, adding that livestock management policies should protect farmers’ livelihoods while providing a regulated system for cattle rearing.
In a statement issued by its Convener, Dogo Nanzing, One Plateau, One Voice alleged that some herders in Plateau State graze their cattle while carrying assault rifles. The group called on the relevant authorities to address the allegations and take appropriate steps to protect rural communities.
It further claimed that unrestricted cattle movement could contribute to tensions in areas affected by attacks and disputes between farmers and herders.
The group also alleged that some armed individuals were using cattle herding as cover for violent activities. However, it did not provide evidence in the statement to independently establish the allegation.
One Plateau, One Voice acknowledged that a ban on open grazing would also affect cattle owners in Plateau State, noting that residents of the state also own large herds of cattle.
“Fulani don’t have the sole right to cattle grazing; Plateau people too have very large herds of cattle, and the ban will affect our people too,” the group said.
It argued that the proposed policy should be considered as part of broader efforts to protect farms, improve security and reduce tensions between farming and livestock-rearing communities.
The group called for a transition from open grazing to ranching, saying a regulated system could help address concerns about livestock movement and damage to farmland.
It urged the state government to consult farmers, cattle owners and other stakeholders in developing and implementing a policy that protects livelihoods, respects the law and promotes peaceful coexistence.
