Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has charged Muslim clerics in the state to caution herdsmen against harassing residents of communities, killing farmers, and damaging crops in the state
Fubara gave this charge when he received the leadership of the Muslim community who paid a visit in the spirit of the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha at the Government House, Port Harcourt on Thursday.
This was contained in a statement signed by Boniface Onyedi, media aide to the governor, and made available to newsmen.
Fubara according to the statement said his administration remains committed to protecting the lives and properties of everyone.
He said such resolve has made it possible for them (Muslims) to celebrate in a peaceful atmosphere.
The governor pointed out that his administration cannot be protecting their businesses while some errant peope are destroying the businesses and livelihoods of others.
He, therefore, warned that if this persists, the government will be compelled to wield the full weight of the law against perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The governor said, “The Local Government areas are complaining, so I expect results in a couple of weeks by calling these people who practice open grazing to order in Ikwerre, Etche, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, and parts of Emohua Local Government Areas. They shouldn’t be harassing the people and should stop killing them in their farms.”
Fubara assured of keeping the channel of communication between him and the Muslim community open because they are critical stakeholders in governance who should enjoy the benefit of the prevailing peace to do their business and worship without molestation.
In his address, the leader of the delegation, and Vice President General of Rivers State Council of Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Nasir Uhor, vowed that the Muslim community will not be involved in using religion to destabilise the State, while also pledging support for the policy and programmes of the government of Governor Fubara.
