Tensions flared as the Nigerian Senate navigated a turbulent session regarding a bill aimed at banning cattle grazing and ranching business on Wednesday…….CONTINUE READING....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Emotions ran high as the legislation to outlaw open grazing successfully cleared its second reading amidst a backdrop of impassioned arguments and discordant exchanges, underscoring the contentious nature of the proposed law.

Should it become law, this bill would effectively put an end to open grazing nationwide, with the intent of resolving enduring conflicts between herders and farmers.

Sponsored by Senator Titus Zam of Benue North West, the bill delineates specific guidelines for the establishment and management of ranches, with the aim of fostering best practices and mitigating disputes between herders and farmers.

Senator Zam outlined the fundamental principles of the bill, advocating for the proposed National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission to oversee the management, regulation, and preservation of ranches throughout Nigeria.

“The proposed National Animal Husbandry and Ranches Commission is for management, preservation, and control of ranches throughout Nigeria,” Senator Zam asserted.

However, the bill faced staunch opposition from Senator Danjuma Goje of Gombe and Senator Adamu Aliero of Kebbi.

Both lawmakers, who are former governors, argued that cattle rearing and ranching activities are more prevalent in the North than in other regions of the country, contending that legislative decisions should encompass the entire nation rather than focusing on a specific area.

Senator Goje, in particular, emphasized that cattle routes predominantly span from the far north to Lokoja, with no extension to the South.

Senator Hussein Babangida Uba of Jigawa North-West urged caution in passing the bill, citing its history of controversy.

Despite the dissenting voices, several senators voiced their support for the bill, arguing that the proposed Commission would effectively address the crisis between farmers and herders, thus warranting its passage.

The bill ultimately passed after a voice vote called by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

It has been referred to the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Judiciary, and Legal Matters for further deliberation within four weeks.

This legislative initiative seeks to confront the challenges and conflicts associated with cattle rearing, advocating for a structured and sustainable approach to the industry.