The Ebenezer Christian Relief Initiative (ECRI) has rejected the proposed pilot ranching in Benue State and called on the Federal Government to work towards the return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their ancestral homes.

Addressing journalists in Makurdi, its Chairman, Rev. Dr. Augustine Akpen Leva, said there was no place for pilot ranching in the state.

He said Benue has an existing law prohibiting open grazing and any federal initiative must respect state laws, rights of landowners and the security concerns of farming communities.

Leva, immediate past Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Benue State chapter, said ranching and other livestock policies should not be imposed without adequate consultation with the state government, traditional rulers, community leaders and farmers.

He said ECRI was not opposed to lawful livestock development.

He said Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia had already rejected the policy during his thank-you tour when he declared that there is no land for pilot ranching, urging government to remain resolute in defending the interest of Benue people.

Leva lamented that persistent insecurity has caused enormous suffering, with families losing loved ones, farmlands and livelihoods while many residents live in deplorable IDP conditions.

He also expressed concern over discrepancies between casualty figures released by security agencies and eyewitness accounts, calling for transparent reporting.

The group appealed to the Federal Government to prioritise protection of lives and property, support IDP resettlement and ensure inclusive consultation, while calling for unity among traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders and the church to fight invaders with an agenda to occupy Benue lands. (The Nation)