ASABA/Nigeria: In response to the persistent threat posed by herdsmen attacks on farmers and farmlands in Delta State, with a focus on Abraka and its vicinity, the Delta State House of Assembly has taken decisive action.
The Assembly on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, passed a critical resolution, urging the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene and engage the Delta State Police Command and other security agencies in addressing this concerning issue.
This significant resolution arose from a motion presented under matters of urgent public importance, sponsored by the Deputy Speaker and Member Representing Ethiope East Constituency in the State Assembly, Rt Hon Arthur Akpowhowho, during the Assembly’s plenary session.
Akpowhowho emphasized that the call for action was imperative to prevent a potential breakdown of law and order within the State. He specifically sought the Governor’s intervention through the office of the Commissioner of Police in the State, Mr. Wale Abass, to address the escalating crisis before it escalates further.
He elaborated on the dire consequences of the situation, stating that residents in Abraka community now live in fear when accessing their farms due to the activities of herders, who have been reported to harass, rape, and even kill farmers. This disturbing situation has already had a detrimental impact on the local economy, contributing to the rising prices of agricultural produce.
He also highlighted the potential threat to peace, law, and order in the area, as local youths are increasingly calling for reprisal actions. To avert this possibility, Akpowhowho stressed the urgency of action by the Governor, the State Commissioner of Police and other security agencies.
Several lawmakers voiced their concerns during the deliberations, emphasizing the need for swift government action to protect the State from the imminent danger posed by herdsmen. They underscored the importance of enforcing the open grazing law previously passed by the Delta State House of Assembly to address this crisis.
This historic motion, the first of its kind passed under matters of urgent public importance by the 8th Assembly, received unanimous support from the House. A voice vote called by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, solidified the adoption of the resolution.
Speaker Guwor expressed deep concern over the unfolding situation and pledged to communicate the Assembly’s resolution to the appropriate authorities for immediate action.
