In a decisive move to address the growing wave of violence against farmers across Delta State, the state government has commenced a profiling exercise targeting herdsmen and cattle owners operating within its borders.
The initiative, which aims to curb attacks linked to armed herders and foster lasting peace between farming and pastoral communities, was announced by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Livestock and Inter-Ethnic Relations, Chief Jeffrey Azagba.
Speaking during a meeting with the Delta State Chapter of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Chief Azagba described the situation as alarming.
“It is worrisome that armed herdsmen are causing havoc in some communities. Profiling them will help identify the bad eggs and ensure peace in our communities,” he stated.
Chief Azagba called on MACBAN’s leadership to provide a comprehensive and verifiable list of its members, stressing that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration remains firmly committed to upholding security and stability across all communities in the state.
“Delta is an agrarian state. We must scale up agricultural production without fear. Anyone aiding or abetting criminal activities should either relocate or be prepared to face the full weight of the law,” Azagba warned.
In response, MACBAN’s State Secretary, Mustapha Suleiman, expressed support for the government’s proactive stance and pledged full cooperation with the profiling process.
“We appreciate the government’s approach and will work hand in hand to ensure peaceful coexistence,” Suleiman said.
The profiling exercise is seen as a bold step by the Delta State Government to confront security threats head-on, sending a clear signal that criminal elements hiding under the guise of pastoral activity will no longer be tolerated.
