David Mark, the former President of the Senate, has advocated for a complete ban on open grazing and the establishment of a well-equipped Border Security Forces (BSF) as vital measures to address the alarming levels of killings and insecurity in the country.
Mark expressed these concerns while lamenting the persistent violent crimes, particularly in the North Central states of Plateau and Benue, which have resulted in significant loss of life and property in recent times.
His remarks were conveyed in a goodwill message from his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Paul Mumeh, on Sunday in Kano during the commemoration of this year’s Easter celebration.
Decrying the ongoing violence in Plateau and Benue, Mark stated, “A debilitating disease deserves a more serious medication, if it must be cured.” He urged for a shift away from open grazing towards the establishment of enclosed ranching, similar to practices in other regions.
The former Senate President, whose home in Otukpo, Benue South has faced attacks from suspected herdsmen, called for a more comprehensive approach to combat insecurity across the board. He asserted that the creation of a well-equipped Border Security Forces would be instrumental in preventing the influx of suspected criminals into the country.
Mark noted, “Most of these suspected herders killing the citizens take advantage of the porous nature of the borders, by streaming into the country unchecked, from other neighbouring countries.” He emphasised the need for a strategic overhaul, suggesting, “We must not allow criminal elements to stream into our country. We must change our strategy. Maybe, we can begin to think of fencing our borders like India, Israel, the U.S. and Mexico.”
He elaborated that the proposed National Border Security Force (NBSF) would not only supervise the country’s vulnerable borders but would also be tasked with combating terrorism, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime.
Mark expressed his concern about the ongoing violent crimes in Plateau and Benue, stating that the situation is increasingly troubling and requires immediate action. He proposed that the violent groups responsible for these acts should be designated as terrorists and treated accordingly. “We must not shy away from the truth. If they are not terrorists, why are they killing people, destroying communities and chasing people away from their ancestral homes?” he questioned.
He condemned the relentless activities of armed herdsmen, who are suspected to be behind the killings and kidnappings. Mark asserted that their actions are unacceptable and must be denounced and prohibited entirely, affirming that no one has the right to take another person’s life.
In light of the ongoing attacks on communities in Benue and Plateau, he urged the Federal Government to outlaw open grazing throughout the country. Mark reiterated that “a debilitating disease deserves a more serious medication, if it must be cured,” advocating for enclosed ranching as a more sustainable solution.
He extended his condolences to the people and governments of Plateau and Benue, as well as to all those who have lost loved ones in the violence.
