Samuel Ortom, governor of Benue state, says the invasion of communities by foreign Fulani natives is the cause of insecurity in the country.
Ortom spoke on Wednesday in Makurdi, the state capital, when he received a delegation of traditional rulers from Nasarawa state.
According to a statement by Nathaniel Ikyur, chief press secretary to the governor, the delegation was led by Shehu Chindo, Emir of Keffi.
The traditional council visited the state to condole with the Benue government over the “hunting expedition” embarked upon by Elias Ikoyi Obekpa, ruler of Idoma nation.
According to reports, rulers of Idoma nation don’t die but embark on “hunting expeditions”.
While receiving them, Ortom said the Tiv, Fulani, and other Nigerians had lived together peacefully until foreign Fulani people were allowed to move into the country “unchecked”.
He said their movement into the country without due checks is the cause of the current violence being witnessed in the country.
On ranching, Ortom explained that the law is a win-win for herders and farmers as it prohibits open grazing and cattle rustling.
The governor also acknowledged the efforts of Abdullahi Sule, his Nasarawa counterpart, to promote peace between the two states, adding that traditional institutions also have a role to play in maintaining peaceful coexistence.
On his part, Chindo presented a condolence letter to Ortom from the Nasarawa governor, saying the news concerning the Och’Idoma was an unfortunate incident for Benue, Nasarawa and the entire country.
He also said the “conflict entrepreneurs who are benefitting from the farmer-herder crises will regret”.