Middle Belt Forum Opposes Compulsory Land for Cattle Ranching

The Middle Belt Forum, MBF, has rejected any compulsory allocation of land for cattle ranching in the region.

The group also called on National Assembly members from affected states to invite the Minister of Livestock Development, Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, to explain the policy and its possible impact on communities.

In a statement by its spokesman, Luka Binniyat, the MBF said it was opposed to the proposed allocation of land for ranching and the possible creation of permanent settlements for pastoralists.

The forum warned that implementing the policy without the consent of affected communities could increase tensions in the region.

It cited past violence and displacement in Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba and the Federal Capital Territory as reasons for its concerns.

The MBF also questioned why Middle Belt states were selected for the pilot programme when, according to the group, some northern states have large areas of sparsely populated land.

It further raised concerns over reported changes to the proposed locations, saying Kano State, initially listed among six locations announced in January 2026, had reportedly been replaced by Nasarawa State.

Meanwhile, the Mutual Union of Tiv in America, MUTA, has also rejected the inclusion of Benue State in the ranching programme.

The group called on the Benue State Government, elected representatives and other stakeholders to use legal and democratic means to oppose the decision.

MUTA said its position was influenced by years of attacks, deaths and displacement in Benue, noting that many displaced residents are still living in IDP camps.