NSCDC counsels Fulani herdsmen in Kwara

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command,  has counselled members of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) to find means to end incessant break down of law and order between local farmers and members of MACBAN in the state.

The meeting  held at the  state headquarters of the NSCDC, Ilorin had in attendance all chairmen of MACBAN in the 16 local government areas of the state, including state executives of the association.

Speaking during the interaction, the state Commandant of NSCDC , Mr Pedro Ideba, said the development was in line with directive of the presidency.

He urged cattle breeders to maintain peace with farmers and report any complaints to the civil defence for better security intervention.

According to him, the meeting was also  part of bid to ensure security and resolve crisis between herdsmen and farmers.

Mr Ideba, who said that the NSCDC had established Agro Rangers Defenders Unit with the aim of ensuring food security, however, appealed to members of Miyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association to avoid  acts that could cause breakdown of law and order in the state.

He urged them to be peaceful while going about their lawful business at their different local governments.

“We are established to provide adequate security of life and property of every individual within our jurisdiction.

“I want to use this medium to call for your cooperation and support to continue to sustain the existing peace and harmony in Kwara State.

“And I want to commend you all for attending the meeting and urge you to carry the message of this meeting to your various local government areas.”

The NSCDC boss, however, appealed to the  MACBAN to always report  cases of violence to the NSCDC or security agencies closer to their community to further avoid breakdown of law and other.

Responding, the general secretary of  the association, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Muhammed, who represented the state chairman of the association, said the meeting was long over due.

“We have been expecting this type of a meeting to be called, but it’s better late than never. We appreciate NSCDC for the privilege given to us to be part of this discussion,” he added.

The state chairman of the association promised to carry the information of the meeting down to their various areas.

He added that the meeting would make their relationship more cordial with the farmers in the state.