The Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has called on the Federal Government to introduce policies to curb the incessant attacks by Fulani herdsmen in the state as a matter of urgency.
The governor made the call at the weekend during the 25th coronation anniversary of the Ovie of Ughelli Kingdom, Wilson Oharisi III.
While noting that the menace of Fulani herdsmen was not restricted to Delta, Okowa said: “Fulani herdsmen menace is a national challenge, it has become something that is affecting all the states in the federation.
“The Federal Government should have a policy direction for us to live in peace with the Fulani herdsmen. I do hope that there will be policy direction to reduce the clashes.
“I want to appeal to our people to continue with the peaceful engagement process while we continue to pressure the Federal Government to have a policy direction on the issue.”
The governor commended traditional rulers for ensuring that their kingdoms are peaceful which has translated to a peaceful state.
“If all the kingdoms are peaceful, the state will be peaceful and I want to state that I am proud of our traditional rulers because, they are working in one accord, with the existing peace in the state, investors will come in and our youths will get employment,” he assured.
Congratulating the king on his 25th coronation of being on the throne, he expressed confidence that with peace, the state was on the path of progress.
Earlier, Chairman on the occasion, Olorogun Miller Uloho, described the king’s leadership qualities as exceptional and friendly to investors and non-indigenes.
The governor also congratulated the Catholic Bishop of Warri Diocese, Most Rev. John Afareha on his 70th birthday anniversary.
Okowa, who was at the Mother of the Redeemer Catholic Church, Effurun for the birthday thanksgiving mass, said it was important for the church to shun materialism and concentrate on winning souls for Christ.