Urgent Appeal By KACRAN to Halt Unauthorized Destruction of Cattle Route in Potiskum, Yobe State
From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The National President of Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN), Honorable Khalid Muhammad Bello, urgently calls upon the Executive Chairman of Potiskum Local Government Council, Yobe State.
This appeal is on behalf of KACRAN members in Juma’a Village, Potiskum Local Government Area, and the broader community, expressing deep concern over the unauthorized destruction of a crucial cattle route in the region.
In a press statement provided to our reporter in Damaturu, Honorable Bello revealed that the historic international cattle route, in use for over a century, is being unlawfully obstructed and divided into plots in direct defiance of Governor Hon Mai Mala Buni’s executive orders.
These orders instructed Local Government Council Chairmen to establish committees to foster peace between farmers and herders and protect grazing reserves and cattle routes from encroachment.
Regrettably, it seems that the Village Head of Juma’a, Alh Yusufu Baba, with alleged backing from the Vice Chairman of the Local Government, has taken actions contradicting these orders.
Khalid Muhammad emphasized that the Village Head’s admission during a press interview, coupled with the Local Government’s inaction, has resulted in further destruction and allocation of the cattle route for personal gain.
This cattle route, not only a historic pathway for herders from Cameroon through Nigeria to Niger but also a crucial component in preventing conflicts between farmers and herders, is now jeopardized.
The unauthorized allocation of this land threatens the livelihoods of thousands of pastoralists and poses a significant threat to the longstanding peace and security of the region.
“We passionately appeal to your office, given your renowned commitment to peace and unity, to intervene swiftly. We urge you to halt these illegal activities, revoke any illicitly allocated plots, and uphold the directives of His Excellency by protecting this vital cattle route.”
“We trust that under your leadership, swift action will be taken to resolve this matter, reinforcing the government’s commitment to fairness, justice, and the prevention of avoidable conflicts.”
“We look forward to your prompt and positive response accordingly.”