By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
In a bid to stem the tide of violent clashes between herders and farmers, the Delta State Government has commenced a profiling exercise for all cattle owners and herdsmen operating within the state.
This was revealed by Chief Jeffrey Azagba, Special Adviser to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Livestock and Inter-Ethnic Relations, during a crucial meeting with the leadership of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Delta State Chapter.
Azagba noted that the state could no longer ignore the growing threat posed by armed herders to local farmers and rural communities.
“It is worrisome that armed herdsmen are causing havoc in some communities,” Azagba said. “Profiling them will help identify the bad eggs and ensure peace in our communities.”
He called on MACBAN to immediately submit a verified register of its members, stressing that the Oborevwori-led administration would not tolerate anyone sabotaging its peace and development drive.
“Delta State is an agrarian state. We must scale up agricultural production without the fear of insecurity,” he added. “Anyone aiding or abetting criminal activities should either relocate or be prepared to face the full weight of the law.”
The move comes amid rising tensions in parts of the state where farmers have reportedly abandoned their lands over repeated attacks by suspected herders.
Reacting to the initiative, the State Secretary of MACBAN, Mustapha Suleiman, commended the government’s effort and pledged full cooperation.
“We appreciate the government’s approach and will work hand in hand to ensure peaceful coexistence,” Suleiman said.
The profiling initiative is seen as a proactive step to foster dialogue, ensure accountability, and promote harmonious living between herders and farmers in the state.