Mixed Reactions As Governor Alia Bans Farming on Idle Plots within Makurdi
Benue state governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued an order banning farming on idle plots within Makurdi metropolis.
He directed that all those using empty plots of land and frontage of their houses to cultivate crops within Makurdi metropolis, should stop immediately.
This was contained in a statement by the Chief press secretary to the governor, Tersoo Kula said the directive became necessary because such areas are used as hideouts by criminals, who prefer dark areas to perpetrate their evil acts.
The Government of Benue State under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormen Alia is set to beautify the state capital.
Therefore, those who are using any portion of land within Makurdi town, spaces within and around offices, roads and street setbacks to farm are directed to stop immediately.
Those who have properly fenced their plots may be excused to farm only within the fenced portions.
The Governor warns that any person caught farming on any portion of land in the state capital will be made to answer certain questions.
Reacting, Mrs Wandoo Kwaghkaa who resides off Vandekya Street, High level Makurdi express sadness about the decision stating that times are very hard now and most of them usually get vegetables from their garden in the houses instead of buying in the markets.
She further said Economic experts advice that people should try and make a garden in their houses that can support their financial income to help them survive this economic hardship.
In his words Mr. Cletus Orbem of court 5 North Bank welcomed the decision. He stated that apart from criminals hiding in such places to carry out their criminal activities, it will also help in beautifying the State capital.
Vitalis Tyokaa, an ex-serviceman said it is a good decision but adviced the government to provide farm lands for those that reside in Makurdi, that it will help them to get crop from their own farm instead of buying everything.
