Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has inaugurated two strategic committees to tackle the pressing issues of security and boundary-related conflicts across the State. The move, which reflects his administration’s resolve to foster peace, stability and development, was announced in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua.
The newly constituted Livestock Control Committee and Boundary Committee are to address the perennial farmers-herders clashes and longstanding inter-community land disputes respectively.
Retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe has been appointed chairman of the 27-member Livestock Control Committee. The committee includes seasoned professionals such as Dr Ernest Afolabi Uwakhikhe, AVM Charles Oghomwen, Comrade Saturday Okhuakhua and several traditional representatives. Mrs Diana Emaga Idahosa will serve as secretary.
While inaugurating the committee, Governor Okpebholo said the task before them was both delicate and urgent.
“This is an assignment that must be carried out with the fear of God so that we can achieve the best possible results. Herders’ clashes are happening frequently, and the aim is to confine livestock to specific areas to reduce conflict,” he said.
General Esekhaigbe, in his acceptance speech, thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed in the committee and acknowledged the significant role livestock management plays in addressing insecurity.
He outlined their terms of reference, including: Regulating livestock movement across the State, inspecting and registering ranches, monitoring the activities of herders, providing security updates to the Governor, recommending permit and renewal fees for livestock operators
“We will give this assignment our best effort and work towards ensuring that clashes between herders and farmers become a thing of the past in our dear state,” he pledged.
On the same day, Governor Okpebholo inaugurated a 14-member Boundary Committee, headed by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, to address internal and interstate boundary issues.
Speaking during the inauguration, Governor Okpebholo stressed the urgency of resolving disputes with neighbouring states such as Delta, Ondo, Kogi, and Lagos.
“We are having boundary crises across several communities. The calibre of people in this committee gives me confidence that this matter will be addressed decisively,” the Governor stated.
The Boundary Committee comprises prominent figures including Dr Samson Osagie, CP Monday Agbonika (rtd), Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon, and representatives of the Oba of Benin. Surv. Ozigbo Osayande Duke will serve as secretary.
Responding on behalf of the committee, Deputy Governor Idahosa thanked the Governor and assured that the committee would discharge its duties with fairness and integrity.
“We are committed to accurate boundary demarcation and peaceful coexistence among communities,” he said. “With the diverse expertise of our members, we shall deliver on our mandate to the benefit of the people of Edo State.”
The dual inauguration, according to observers, reflects the Governor’s holistic strategy in addressing interrelated issues of land security and communal peace, and reaffirms his administration’s focus on sustainable development.
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