By Ugochukwu Ugoji-Eke, Umuahia
The Abia state government says it has no apologies for paying N100,000 compensation for any cow killed during clashes between Abia farmers and Fulani herdsmen.
The government’s position was stated by Onyebuchi Ememanka Dr Okezie Ikpeazu’s Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.
Ikpeazu has been under attacks after saying in a television programme that part of the efforts his government has put in place to foster peace and unity in the state, is by paying Fulani herdsmen N100,000 for any cow killed during clashes with farmers in the state.
He disclosed that the farmer is also compensated based on the assessment of the level of loss he or she suffered during a clash which leads to the destruction of crops and farmlands.
The people of Abia were enraged by the government’s attempt at appeasing herdsmen, which they believe would only encourage the herdsmen to continue to perpetrate evil atrocities against their hosts without limits.
However, Ememanka on a social media post said the explanation by the government captured the approach of the governor in handling the challenges of herdsmen in Abia state, adding that, “We have no apologies to anyone about this.
He maintained that “indeed, there is nothing cowardly about seeking peace”.
The statement by the CPS has attracted some adverse reactions from social media users, who expressed disappointment that he has remained defiant like Garba Shehu, media aide to President Muhammadu Buhari, in the face of growing disillusionment with the government.
For instance, Crystal Jane Cosmos wrote on her Facebook page that, “While others are busy protecting their lands from war and herdsmen, some are busy bringing the war to their land and empowering the herdsmen to destroy”.
Sophie Ogechi wrote, “I’m beginning to lack adjective to describe this government. Imagine, strangers came to your place, raped and killed people, destroyed their crops and you still pay them N100k for a job well done. Then you have the civil servants under your payroll starving… Pay teachers and health workers their salaries of over 12 months and implement the 2018 open grazing ban, while it’s day”.
A concerned citizen said that herder-farmer clashes will come to an end if each unit has a specific domain for their business operations.
He said in as much as governments at all levels are coming with what is perceived to be an interim measure to maintain peace and tranquility amongst all, “efforts should be intensified to start educating, introducing and implementing ranching approach to pastoral farming”.
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