In a decisive move to address long-standing tensions between herders and farmers in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has launched two strategic committees—the Livestock Control Committee and the Boundary Dispute Committee—to promote security, community harmony, and sustainable livestock management.

The inauguration ceremony, which took place in Benin City, brought together key stakeholders and government officials. The 27-member Livestock Control Committee, chaired by retired General Cecil Esekhaigbe, has been tasked with ending recurring confrontations between pastoralists and crop farmers by streamlining livestock movement, formalizing ranch operations, and regulating the activities of herders across the state.

Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the need for wisdom, responsibility, and divine guidance in carrying out this sensitive assignment. “We must manage this situation with fairness and integrity. Restricting herders to designated areas is crucial to ending these clashes,” he said. The governor expressed confidence in the committee, citing the members’ extensive expertise and dedication.

In his acceptance speech, General Esekhaigbe affirmed the committee’s readiness to execute its mandate, noting that livestock-related conflicts are a major contributor to insecurity across Nigeria. “We will ensure that ranches are registered, herder movements are controlled, and communities are protected,” he stated.

The initiative aligns with Edo State’s broader agricultural development and rural security strategy. By instituting a formal structure for livestock control, the state aims to modernize pastoral practices, reduce tensions over grazing land, and foster peaceful coexistence between farming and herding communities.

In a related development, the Boundary Dispute Committee was also inaugurated, with the Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, appointed as chair. This committee will focus on resolving land disputes between local communities within Edo State and its neighboring states—including Delta, Kogi, Ondo, and Lagos.

Governor Okpebholo acknowledged the historical significance of boundary disputes and urged the committee to ensure accurate land demarcation, stating, “We must address these long-standing conflicts to enable development and stability in affected areas.”

Deputy Governor Idahosa assured stakeholders of the committee’s readiness to promote peaceful resolution of disputes, improve community relations, and foster regional development through active stakeholder engagement and transparency.

These initiatives underscore the Edo State Government’s commitment to agricultural transformation, rural security, and inclusive governance. By tackling livestock-related conflicts and land disputes head-on, the government is creating a more secure and productive environment for farmers, herders, and the broader rural economy.