The Senate has called on the Federal Government to fund the establishment of modern ranches nationwide to enhance safety and economic productivity for herders and residents.
The Red Chamber also resolved to enact a law defining the limits of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty to address security concerns.
These resolutions followed a motion of urgent national importance titled, “Urgent Need to Address Incessant Banditry Attacks, Killings, and Displacement of Innocent Nigerians in Some Villages in Billiri Local Government Area of Gombe State,” moved by Senator Anthony Yaro (Gombe South).
Presenting the motion, Senator Yaro highlighted the December 11 attacks on villages in Billiri Local Government Area, where suspected herders killed several residents, burned homes, and destroyed food supplies and livestock.
The affected villages included Sansani, Kalindi, Powishi, and Lawushi Daji, leaving scores displaced.
“The government must urgently address these recurring attacks that destabilise not just the affected communities but also threaten the peace of neighbouring states such as Taraba, Bauchi, and Adamawa,” Yaro said.
He emphasised that the violence has disrupted food sufficiency and major economic activities in the region, citing Sections 33 and 41 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantees citizens’ rights to life and freedom of movement.
In his contribution, Senator Seriake Dickson advocated for the establishment of modern ranches, describing them as critical to resolving the herder-farmer crisis.
Dickson said, “Ranching is a legitimate business opportunity that addresses the economic plight of herders, many of whom trek long distances from Sokoto to Lagos or Bayelsa.”
Dickson urged the federal government to adopt a comprehensive approach involving key agencies to develop a nationwide ranching initiative.
“This initiative will not only enhance safety but also transform livestock management, boost local economies, and foster peace across the country,” he added.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole underscored the importance of defining the boundaries of economic activities under the ECOWAS treaty, citing criminal activities tied to individuals exploiting Nigeria’s open borders.
“It is critical to enact laws that safeguard the rights of Nigerians and regulate movement and economic activities,” Oshiomhole said.
The former Edo State governor also reminded the Senate of its prior agreement to hold a national public hearing to explore legislative solutions to the security challenges linked to economic activities and movement.
The Senate observed a minute’s silence in honour of the deceased victims.
The Senate, thereafter, “Tasked the Inspector General of Police, Chief of Army Staff, and Director-General of the Department of State Services with investigating the attacks, arresting the perpetrators, and prosecuting them.
The Senate also called for “the urgent creation of a joint police and military task force in Billiri Local Government Area to prevent further killings.”
The Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, the National Emergency Management Agency and the North East Development Commission were urged to deliver relief materials to displaced persons.
The Committees on Legislative Compliance, Police Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence were mandated to monitor adherence to the resolutions and develop lasting solutions to regional insecurity.
The Senate reiterated its commitment to addressing the root causes of the herdsmen crisis and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
