Diri warns traditional rulers against allocating forest lands to herdsmen

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has cautioned traditional rulers in the state against granting land to herdsmen within forest areas, stressing that violators will face appropriate sanctions.

The governor gave the warning during the flag-off of the 2025/2026 dry farming season at the state-owned rice farm in Otuasega community, Ogbia Local Government Area. He explained that the directive is in line with the state’s anti-grazing law, which remains fully in force.

According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri noted that the movement of herdsmen and their cattle often results in the destruction of farmlands and crops, thereby undermining food production in the state.

“Herdsmen do not reside on our farms; rather, they move around and destroy crops,” the governor said. “Let me reiterate that our anti-grazing law is still operational. In cases of destruction by herdsmen, residents should report to security agencies instead of taking the matter to social media.”

He further warned traditional rulers against allocating forest lands to herdsmen, emphasizing that anyone found culpable would be sanctioned. “Bayelsa must be safe, and we all have a responsibility to ensure its safety,” he added.

Governor Diri also directed the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources to work towards boosting the production of Bayelsa-produced rice before the end of 2026. He announced a monthly intervention fund of ₦200 million to support farmers across the state.

“We will continue to support our farmers,” he said. “The commissioner should identify genuine farmers, and just as we supported MSMEs, farmers will now benefit as well. A sum of ₦200 million will be set aside monthly for this purpose.”

The governor also urged civil servants and residents of the state to actively engage in agricultural activities to strengthen food security and economic growth.