Obaseki said this as he insisted that the ban on open grazing in the state is still in full force.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has said that any herdsman who wants to establish ranches in the state must approach communities in the state to buy land.
Obaseki said this as he insisted that the ban on open grazing in the state is still in full force.
He warned that any herder found violating the state’s anti-open grazing law would be made to face the full wrath of the law.
Governor Obaseki issued the warning on Tuesday while addressing stakeholders during an interactive session on the Edo State Regional Development and Benin City Master Plan, held at Iguobazuwa, Ovia South-West Local Government Area of the state.
The governor who pledged the state government’s commitment to the safety and security of residents, called for the collaboration and support of all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful, secure and prosperous Edo State.
Obaseki said, “Any herdsman in our bush without permission is working against the law of our state, and anything that happens, they can’t blame anyone.
“Let us be sure that nobody gives that person the permission to enter our forest and if permission will be granted, let us know the type of permission given to them to come into our bushes or forest to graze with their cattle.
“Open grazing is banned in Edo State. If they are in your forest, let Aus know where they are because we have police and vigilantes who will help us get them out through a number we will give you to call.”
He added that “They should do business with you and not invade our forest indiscriminately as if there are no owners. The forest and bushes belong us."