Conversion of forests into reserves will help curb banditry, kidnappings and farmer-herder clashes – Cleric
The Bishop, Nnewi Diocese, Province of the Niger, Anglican Communnion, Rt. Rev. Dr. Ndubuisi Obi, has called on the Federal Government to turn the dreaded Sambisa Forest and other forests, which serve as haven for bandits in Yobe, Niger and Kaduna, among other states to grazing reserves, if it is keen on tackling insecurity facing the country.
Obi, who made the call at Nnewi, Anambra State, yesterday, ahead of the three-day 9th session of the Synod beginning September 2, 2021 at St James Ichi, Ekwusigo Local Council of Anambra State, with theme: Created for Dominion, said he was amazed that government was foot-dragging on turning the forests into grazing reserves.
No fewer than 600 delegates from 137 churches are expected as participants.
He said the conversion of these forests into reserves will help curb banditry, kidnappings and farmer-herder clashes, advising the Federal Government to show more sincerity and openness in its policy and efforts to check saddening activities of insurgent groups, such as Boko Haram, herdsmen and others killing and engaging in destructive spree.
Obi wondered why the Federal Government that had found it expedient to construct rail line from Nigeria to Niger is not disposed to building facilities that can take water from available rivers to irrigate and fertilise the lands at the vast land in Sambisa and other forests.
The cleric pointed out that it was ill timed for President Muhammadu Buhari to show more interest in the creation and reviving controversial grazing routes, which drew ire from majority of members of the House of Representatives who opposed it.
The bishop advised the Federal Government to provide fund and buy lands and grow grasses for the cattle to feed.
Obi frowned at the raid and killings of suspected members of Eastern Security Network (ESN)) and Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in Imo State and other parts of Southeast, while turning deaf ears to the orgy of killings and destruction of property in parts of the North.
