IPOB Rejects Ranching Policy in Southeast, Urges Governors to Resist Presidential Directive

The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) has firmly rejected the proposed establishment of ranches across the Southeast region of Nigeria, describing the move as a calculated attempt to forcefully seize ancestral lands from indigenous communities. In a recent statement, IPOB warned Southeast governors against complying with the Federal Government’s directive, urging them to place the interests of their people above political loyalty.

The federal ranching initiative, which is aimed at curbing open grazing and addressing farmer-herder conflicts, has met stiff resistance in various regions. However, IPOB insists that ranching in the Southeast is not a solution but a hidden agenda to promote Fulani expansionism. According to the pro-Biafra group, the plan is not welcomed and should be viewed as a threat to regional peace and cultural heritage.

IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful stated that the Southeast does not suffer from the herder-farmer crisis in the same manner as the Middle Belt or Northwest, making the ranching policy irrelevant and suspicious. The group emphasized that traditional rulers and community leaders should be consulted before any decisions affecting land are taken, as land ownership in Igboland is communal and deeply rooted in ancestral heritage.

Furthermore, IPOB accused the Federal Government of ignoring calls for restructuring and true federalism while attempting to impose controversial policies. The group called on governors in the Southeast to emulate the steps of Benue State, which has boldly resisted open grazing and ranching policies that infringe on the rights of indigenous people.

This development is stirring public debate across the region, with many citizens supporting IPOB’s stance, citing fears of insecurity and cultural erosion. As the tension grows, all eyes are on Southeast governors to see whether they will align with the people or bow to federal pressure.

Luchiinter News | www.luchiinter.blogger.com
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