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…Law Remains in Force as Government Plans Fresh Sensitisation Ahead of 2027 Enforcement
BAUCHI — Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has ordered the immediate suspension of the enforcement of the state’s Livestock Right-of-Way policy following concerns over the timing and methods adopted in its implementation.
The Governor announced the decision during an expanded stakeholders’ meeting at the Government House, Bauchi, convened to address complaints arising from the enforcement exercise and safeguard peaceful coexistence between farmers and livestock breeders across the state.
Governor Bala Mohammed explained that the policy, backed by an Executive Order and legislation of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, was introduced to protect designated livestock routes, regulate their use and minimise recurring conflicts between farmers and herders.
He, however, expressed concern over reports that chemicals were being used to clear some livestock routes, warning that such methods could pose serious risks to livestock, crops and the livelihoods of communities.
The Governor particularly noted that the timing of the enforcement was inappropriate as farmers were approaching the harvest season after investing considerable resources and effort in cultivating their farms.
According to him, enforcement ought to have commenced much earlier in the farming season, stressing that government policies, irrespective of their importance, must be implemented with empathy, adequate consultation, public sensitisation and consideration for the livelihoods of affected citizens.
He therefore directed that the exercise be suspended immediately while government intensifies engagement with farmers, herders, traditional institutions, local government authorities and other stakeholders.
Speaking earlier, the Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, Aminu Hammayo, said the meeting was convened at the instance of the Governor to address concerns generated by the implementation of the Executive Order on livestock right-of-way.
Hammayo explained that the government had constituted a committee comprising relevant ministries, departments and agencies as well as key stakeholders to undertake public sensitisation and facilitate orderly implementation of the policy.
Providing further clarification after the meeting, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Dr. Bala Musa Lukshi, said the government had initially approved the enforcement exercise after consultations and the development of strategies for its implementation.
He said Governor Bala Mohammed subsequently ordered its suspension after receiving observations and complaints from members of the public, explaining that the intervention was necessary to address legitimate concerns and prevent actions capable of threatening peace.
Dr. Lukshi emphasised that the suspension of enforcement does not amount to the suspension or repeal of the Right-of-Way law, saying the legislation remains fully in force.
According to him, enforcement is expected to resume next year after extensive sensitisation of farmers, livestock breeders and communities across the state.
He consequently advised farmers against cultivating designated livestock corridors, warning that violators could face sanctions in accordance with the law when enforcement resumes.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Iliyasu Aliyu Gital, said the state government would strengthen engagement with farmers, herders, local government councils and traditional rulers to ensure that communities clearly understand the provisions of the law before the next phase of enforcement.
He said sustained dialogue and sensitisation would help prevent misunderstanding while ensuring that the interests of both farmers and livestock breeders are protected.
Representatives of Miyetti Allah and farmers’ associations welcomed the outcome of the stakeholders’ meeting and expressed readiness to cooperate with the government in addressing contentious issues surrounding livestock routes.
They also pledged to support measures aimed at strengthening understanding and peaceful coexistence between farming and pastoral communities.
The meeting was attended by the Emir of Bununu, Alhaji Jibrin Danlami Hassan, other traditional rulers, leaders of farmers’ and livestock breeders’ associations, commodity groups, representatives of security agencies and members of the Bauchi State Executive Council.
The stakeholders appealed to residents, particularly farmers and herders, to respect the government’s directive suspending enforcement and maintain peace while further consultations and sensitisation continue.
By Abdulwahab Muhammad
SSA Communication to the Governor of Bauchi State
Published by Alphapressmedia.com
