Following fresh protest by women groups in Plateau State yesterday, the Plateau State House of Assembly summoned the Commissioners of Information & Communication, Mr. Nazif Ahmed and that of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Mrs. Lynda Barau to explain government’s position on the Grazing Reserve/Ranches Bill that had generated heated debates and protests in the state. Some women, who wore black dresses, had earlier stormed the Assembly, calling on the House to reject the planned Grazing Reserve bill in the state.

The invitation of the two Commissioners followed a motion of public importance by the member representing Mikang Constituency in the state Assembly, Mr. Daniel Na’anlong, whose constituency is among the two local government areas earmarked for the said grazing reserves/ranches.

Na’anlong stated that the people of his constituency were not consulted on the issues only for them to hear that the local government was among those earmarked by the government for such a policy. According to him: “Mr. Speaker it’s not an issue of APC or PDP or either tribal issue, but we must as lawmakers look at it very clearly so as to avert any crisis that this confusion may bring to the state.“

The Speaker, Mr. Peter Azi who presided over the sitting said the House had not been properly briefed on the issues. Deputy Speaker, Mr. Yusuf Gagdi and Minority Leader, Mr. Daniel Dem, also expressed dissatisfaction with the manner the issues had generated tension. They noted that there was need for full explanation from the executives on the issue.

Culled from The Vanguard

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Plateau House of Assembly summon commissioner of Information over Grazing Reserves