Governor Sule Takes Firm Stand on Agricultural Land Encroachment
Governor Abdullahi Sule has issued a stern warning against encroachment on government farmland, particularly land designated for the Nasarawa Agricultural Development Programme (NADP). The governor addressed members of the Ayarkeke community, who had protested alleged land seizures, explaining that the land in question legally belongs to the state government but had previously been underutilized. This lack of development had led to local communities settling on the land, farming, and building homes.
Governor Sule made it clear that while his administration acknowledges the use of the land by the community, no further encroachment would be tolerated. He assured that the government would not interfere with the community’s current farming activities but drew a clear line at new areas being cleared for government farming projects.
Encroachment on Designated Farmlands Not Tolerated
The governor explained that his administration has been accommodating by allowing communities to continue farming on land owned by the state. However, he emphasized that any further encroachment on the newly designated areas for state agricultural use would be met with strict consequences. He highlighted that the area extending 2km from the Ayarkeke community is meant for government farming and warned that individuals attempting to clear this land would face legal repercussions.
Governor Sule reassured the community that the state government is committed to peace and development, and he urged them to cooperate with the administration’s efforts to expand agricultural projects vital to the state’s economic development. He also ruled out any compensation for encroachers, stating that the land designated for government use is free from legal claims such as economic trees or residential structures.
Focus on Agricultural Development and Inclusive Governance
The governor’s visit highlights his administration’s strong focus on advancing agricultural projects as a key pillar of Nasarawa’s economic development. While balancing the need for effective land management, Governor Sule stressed that his administration would continue to work inclusively with communities to foster stability and development. He urged the people of Nasarawa to stay out of conflict and allow the government to focus its resources on the state’s growth.
The Governor’s approach reflects a commitment to both upholding state rights over public assets and ensuring that local communities are not unduly harmed by development initiatives.
