The Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), security agencies and other stakeholders, have met in Akure, Ondo State, South-West Nigeria.
The meeting followed Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s order insisted herdsmen vacate the forest reserves in the state. The governor’s seven-day ultimatum elapses today.
The Presidency and some others rejected the move, describing it as unconstitutional.
On Monday, stakeholders met in Akure and discussed solutions to the incessant killings, kidnappings and crises between herdsmen and farmers in the Southwest geo-political zone of the country.
READ ALSO: Akeredolu Orders Herders To Vacate Ondo Forest Reserves Withing Seven Days
According to a communique, the meeting resolved that security and welfare of the people of Nigeria is the primary purpose of Government as enshrined in the 1999 constitution of Nigeria as amended.
The meeting noted that Akeredolu’s order was misconstrued and misrepresented, adding that the governor only ordered those occupying the Forest Reserves illegally to quit.
The stakeholders also averred that criminals should be apprehended and punished, no matter their origin, class or status.
READ ALSO: Presidency Tackles Akeredolu Over Directive To Herders To Vacate Ondo Forests
“The stakeholders are committed to the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria. Insecurity is a national challenge and not peculiar to any tribe or region but must be addressed by the cooperation of all,” the communique read.
“The order of the Ondo State Governor was misconstrued and misrepresented by a section of the media. He only ordered those occupying the Forest Reserves in Ondo State illegally to quit.
“Criminals should be apprehended and punished, no matter their origin, class or status.
“Security agencies have been trying to stem the tide of criminality in the country but must step up their efforts in the fight.
“There is the need to build partnership for peace and security with MACBAN and jointly wage war against criminality.
“No one had sent anyone away from any state or region but all hands must be on deck to fight criminality.”
The NGF was led by its Chairman and Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi.
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