CAN: FG’s Ruga settlement not relevant to Benue people

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Benue State, on Monday, said the Federal Government should not force its proposed Ruga settlement for Fulani herders on people of the state.

CAN insisted that Ruga is of no relevance to Benue people.

State Chairman of CAN, Reverend Akpen Leva, said, at a news conference in Makurdi, that the body had to address the issues as whatever affects the state unarguably impact on the Christian community in the state.

“The Ruga settlement, which the federal government is forcing on the Benue community is of no relevance entirely, to the people of the State.

“As farmers, we have come to the naked reality that the land in Benue State cannot even satisfy the farming community in the State for the production of crops and this cannot be shared with cattle rearers for the purpose of Ruga settlement,” he said.

He added, that, “this is why as a church in Benue State, we reject the proposed Ruga settlement for herdsmen in the state. Benue has no land for Ruga settlement.”