In a bid to address the growing concerns of farmers in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has called on Muslim clerics to intervene and caution herdsmen who have allegedly been harassing residents and destroying crops in various communities.
The governor made this plea during a visit by the leadership of the Muslim community in the state to mark the celebration of Eid al-Adha at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Expressing his commitment to ensuring the safety of businesses and livelihoods in the state, Governor Fubara emphasized the need for action to be taken against the errant members of the Muslim community who engage in destructive practices.
Governor Fubara stated, “The purpose of my administration is to protect the lives and properties of everyone. The local government areas are complaining, so I expect results in a couple of weeks by calling these people who practice open grazing to order in Ikwerre, Etche, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and parts of Emohua Local Government Areas.”
He further stressed the need for an end to the harassment and killing of people on their farms by herdsmen. The governor’s ultimate goal is to foster peace and ensure that all residents can go about their business and worship without fear.
Assuring the governor of the Muslim community’s support, the leader of the delegation and Vice President General of the Rivers State Council of Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Nasir Awhelebe Uhor, emphasized that religion should not be used as a tool to destabilize the state. Alhaji Uhor pledged their commitment to the policies and programs of Governor Fubara’s government.
