Published: August 13, 2026
By: Jija-Bokoti Media
The Nigeria Catholic Diocesan Priests Association (NCDPA), Makurdi Diocese, has rejected the Federal Government’s decision to include Benue State in the pilot implementation of the National Ranching Policy.
The association described the move as unacceptable, warning that it could pose a potential threat to the ancestral lands and livelihoods of indigenous communities in the state.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Revd. Fr. Joseph Terfa Beba, the NCDPA expressed concern over what it described as the apparent exclusion of the Benue State Government from the decision-making process surrounding the policy.
According to the priests, Benue has endured prolonged insecurity, killings, displacement and the destruction of communities. They therefore argued that the state should not be subjected to any policy that could potentially result in land grabbing, forced occupation or the permanent displacement of indigenous residents.
Priests Demand Stakeholder Consultation
The NCDPA said ranching should not be introduced in Benue without broad and transparent consultations involving the state government, traditional rulers and affected communities.
The association also called for displaced residents of Benue to be allowed to return safely to their communities and reclaim their ancestral lands before discussions are held on existing or proposed ranching structures.
The priests further maintained that Benue is predominantly an agrarian state and questioned the viability of commercial ranching in the state.
Support for Bishop Anagbe’s Position
The NCDPA reaffirmed its support for the position of the Catholic Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa Anagbe, CMF, who has repeatedly raised concerns about policies he considers threats to the ancestral lands, livelihoods and security of Benue residents.
Emphasising its position on the issue, the association declared:
“Our land is not for sale and has never been on sale.”
The priests insisted that the ancestral homes and lands of Benue people must not become bargaining chips in government policy.
The NCDPA consequently called on the Federal Government to respect the constitutional rights of Benue residents and engage the state government, traditional institutions and other relevant stakeholders before proceeding with any ranching initiative in the state.
Jija-Bokoti Media will continue to monitor developments surrounding the proposed ranching policy and its implications for Benue communities.
