A security and defence intelligence expert, Group Captain Felix Iheanacho (retired) has warned the Federal Government on the dangers of its proposed settlement for herdsmen.
While appearing as a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Iheanacho said the move is not a welcome development.
He noted that the communities meant to host the herdsmen were already reacting, suggesting that problems could arise if the Federal Government goes ahead with the plan.
“We have been seeing reactions. Most of the communities and areas where these settlements are proposed are already expressing resentment on this plan.
“I, therefore, think it deserves to be looked into. We need to review that plan because I see it as not a welcome initiative by those communities they are intended for.
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“I can see some problems arising therefrom if we do that without carrying those communities along with us,” he said.
When asked if the problem arose from the timing of the proposal or the idea, the security expert replied saying: “It is not just the timing, it is also the idea because we are looking at modernity. Culture is not static, culture is dynamic.
Iheanacho, however, wants the government to synchronize its farming methods in line with international best practices.
Speaking on recent attacks that that ravaged parts of the country leading to the several loss of lives and properties, the intelligence analyst said the nation lacks the political will to address the situation.
He, therefore, urged the political class to “do more. We need to develop the necessary political will and we also need to show concrete action to make sure that we stem this tide of insecurity.”
His warning comes two days after Federal Government announced it had begun to establish “Ruga Settlements” for herdsmen in 12 pilot states nationwide.
The Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mohammadu Umar said the farm settlements when fully established would address the incessant clashes between Fulani cattle rearers and farmers.
