Muhammad Bello Muazu, State Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Gombe State Command has deployed 299 Agro Rangers and other personnel to prevent clashes between herders and farmers during the harvest season in the state.
Commandant Muazu, while making the deployment of the Agro-Rangers, the deployment along major cattle routes in Gombe state became necessary to enforce the restriction of cattle movements and migration order of the state government.
He explained that the deployment became necessary in order to prevent farmers/herders’ clashes and ensure a peaceful harvest season in the state.
”The deployment of the specialized personnel is in line with the corps mission of developing structures and strategies that would contribute to the National Security by using modern technology. As we get to the end of October 2023, it’s obvious that the raining season has virtually come to an end. Hence, the commencement of harvest of crops from farms by the farmers.
The harvest season in Nigeria more particularly in Gombe State comes with a lot of challenges considering the fact that Gombe State is 80% agrarian community. We cannot forget the fact that, the herders would commence their migration from the northern region particularly Yobe and Bauchi State respectively following their route in search of water and greener pasture.” Commandant Muazu said.
The Commandant warned that any herder or farmer found violating the restriction order will face the full wrath of the law.
He urged farmers across the state to report any suspicious activity or security threats to the nearest security post, and to avoid taking laws into their own hands. The Commandant also called on members of the public to cooperate with the deployed officers by providing useful information that will aid their operations.
Commandant Muazu equally urged the farmers and herders to embrace the use of modern techniques in agriculture and animal husbandry to reduce the incidence of clashes which has in the past led to loss of several lives, cattle and destruction of farmlands across the country.
He also appealed to the people of Gombe State to support the efforts of the NSCDC in maintaining peace and security in the state. He assured that the NSCDC will not rest on its oars until the state is completely free of any form of insecurity.