The Nsukka Platform, headquartered in Asaba, has voiced opposition to the Enugu State Government’s proposal to establish ranches in certain communities within the state.
Following an emergency meeting convened in Asaba, the Delta State capital, the Chairman and Secretary of the group, Dr. Leo Abonyi and Mr. Ejiofor Asogwa respectively, urged the state government to abandon the plan.
Comprised of professionals from Enugu North Senatorial District residing and working in Asaba, Delta State, the socio-cultural group warned that such initiatives could have detrimental effects on the affected communities. Specifically, they condemned the government’s intention to establish ranches in Nimbo, Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area; Eha-Amufu, Isu-Uzo Local Government Area; and Ugwoba, Oji-River Local Government Area.
The group recounted how government officials instructed the Chairman of Uzo Uwani Local Government Area to inform the Nimbo community of the plan, which was met with immediate rejection and protest. They criticized Governor Peter Mbah’s administration for considering such actions, highlighting the historical violence inflicted by herdsmen in the region.
Drawing parallels to the rejected RUGA initiative proposed during the previous administration of Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the group questioned the economic viability of ranching in these communities.
Instead, they advocated for the establishment of local agricultural production and processing centers, particularly emphasizing the need to revive the Ada Rice Farm and establish a university of agriculture to foster development in Nimbo, Eha-Amufu, and Ugwuoba.
