Insecurity: Tinubu demands herders surrender guns

President Bola Tinubu has urged herders across the country to abandon open grazing, hand over all illegal firearms, and fully adopt ranching as part of the Federal Government’s new strategy to end the recurring farmer–herder crisis.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the President said his administration is now focused on long-term, peaceful solutions to the clashes between herders and farming communities — disputes that continue to escalate insecurity in several northern and central states.

Tinubu’s message comes at a time when the country is grappling with fresh school abductions in Niger, Kebbi, and other states, alongside persistent farmer–herder violence that has claimed many lives in the North Central region.

“Ranching is the sustainable way forward for livestock production and for maintaining peace in the country,” the President said.

He called on all herder groups to embrace the transition, cooperate with authorities, and surrender illegal weapons as part of efforts to curb violence. Tinubu also appealed to churches and mosques, particularly in high-risk areas, to work closely with security agencies to protect worshippers during gatherings.

The President highlighted the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a key component of the government’s plan to modernise the sector. He encouraged herder associations to partner with the ministry and embrace more structured, ranch-based operations.

Tinubu noted that farmer–herder clashes have continued to trigger land disputes and deadly confrontations, especially in the Middle Belt.

According to him, the new livestock policy aims to protect both communities and reduce tension over land use. He added that the Federal Government, in collaboration with states, will support the creation of ranches and strengthen efforts to remove illegal arms from circulation.

Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has heightened security following threats from a self-acclaimed bandit in the Edo Central Senatorial District. In a statement by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, residents were assured of their safety.

The governor convened an emergency security meeting after a viral video showed the suspect issuing threats to communities around Ekpoma and nearby areas.

Recently, the Edo State Special Security Squad arrested two suspected kidnappers — Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh — in Egbai Community, Ovia North-East LGA, after what the government described as intelligence-driven surveillance.

Authorities urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and continue cooperating with security agencies. Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to keeping citizens, travellers, and investors safe.