The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo-led panel on the herdsmen/farmers clashes in the country will go ahead with its work despite opposition from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).
The group had protested the inclusion of Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom and Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku on the panel, saying the duo were biased against herdsmen and would try to sway other panel members.
But reacting, Senior Special Assistant to Osinbajo on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, said the panel was undaunted in its task and would continue with its work.
According to The Nation, he said the panel’s work was in the interest of the nation.
Akande said, “Our job is to all Nigerians and in this case all affected parties and communities. The interest of the administration is peace and the first duty of government is to provide peace and security of life and property.
“We note the views of all and welcome their right to their own positions. Government would also do its job to secure the wellbeing of all Nigerians including those who have expressed their opinions.
“The Working Group has met once already and would continue to meet to ensure that all Nigerians live in peace and security.
“The Group is made up of elected governors including those whose communities are affected. And we should not forget that all those serving in States as Governors and FG have sworn to protect the constitution. That is the guarantee by law that their actions would be fair and without fear or favour.
“This crisis and the misunderstanding that attends it would be over under the Buhari administration by the special Grace of God.”