A statement signed by the group's National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, said the governor's decision is a timely and appropriate response that will strengthen the culture that puts a higher value on human life than that of livestock.
Afenifere, a Yoruba socio-cultural group, has praised the decision of Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, to ban cattle grazing in the State, calling the move courageous.
A statement signed by the group's National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, said the governor's decision is a timely and appropriate response that will strengthen the culture that puts a higher value on human life than that of livestock.
"We have sacrificed enough blood in the unending cycle of bloodletting by Fulani herdsmen, the latest being those killed in Ekiti two days ago. The responsible action of the governor should jolt the Federal Government that has appeared largely indifferent to the murderous activities of the Fulani herdsmen to act responsibly over this matter.
"We fully endorse this action, which is in conformity with the resolution of the 2014 National Conference that cattle breeders must embrace ranching as against grazing reserves being canvassed in certain quarters," said Mr. Odumakin.
Mr. Fayose is the first State governor to ban cattle grazing. He announced the ban during a visit to Oke-Ako in Ikole Local Government Area of the State, which was invaded by herdsmen last Friday. The invasion resulted in the death of two residents of the town and injuries to many others.
The governor also announced that a bill to criminalize the movement of cattle from one location to another in the State would be sent to the State legislature.