Benue: Catholic Priests Reject FG’s Ranching Plan, Demand IDPs’ Resettlement
The Nigeria Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese, has rejected the Federal Government’s decision to include Benue State in the pilot implementation of its national ranching policy.
The priests urged the Federal Government to prioritise the safe return and resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in their ancestral communities rather than focusing on the establishment of ranches in the state.
The association made its position known in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Chairman, Rev. Fr. Joseph Terfa Beba.
The NCDPA described Benue as a “bleeding and targeted” state and warned that the ranching policy must not become a means of land acquisition, forced occupation or displacement of indigenous communities.
The priests also expressed concern over the alleged exclusion of the Benue State Government from the decision-making and approval process leading to the inclusion of the state in the policy.
According to the association, communities across Benue have endured killings, displacement, destruction of property and prolonged insecurity, making consultation with the state government and affected communities essential before implementing any policy affecting ancestral lands.
The priests insisted that traditional rulers and community leaders should also be involved in decisions concerning land use and the resettlement of displaced populations.
The association further referenced the position of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Bishop Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, whom it said had consistently raised concerns over policies and actions perceived to threaten the ancestral lands and security of Benue residents.
The NCDPA called on the Federal Government to respect the constitutional rights of Benue residents and ensure the safe return and resettlement of displaced persons in their ancestral communities.
It also urged authorities to adopt an inclusive approach to policies affecting land and security, stressing that sustainable peace in Benue requires meaningful consultation with the state government and local communities.
The association maintained that the protection of lives, property and ancestral lands should remain the priority in addressing the security and humanitarian challenges confronting the state.
