BREAKING: Gov Alia passes bill banning ‘Marching Ground’ in Benue

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has signed into law 10 bills recently passed by the Benue State House of Assembly, including a bill banning the practice of ‘Marching Ground’ in the state.

Governor Alia received the bills for his assent on Tuesday at the Old Banquet Hall, Government House, Makurdi.

He explained that the laws are designed to protect the general safety of the Benue people and ensure their rights as citizens are not abused by others.

One of the key laws signed is “A Law to Prohibit Harassment, Extortion of Money from Land Developers (Marching Ground), Violent and Fraudulent Conducts in Relation to Landed Properties and for Purposes Connected Therewith 2024,” aimed at eliminating the illegal extortion practice known as ‘Marching Ground.’

Other notable legislation includes “A Law to Make Provisions for Benue State Drug and Health Commodities Management Agency and Other Matters Connected Therewith 2024,” among others.

After assenting to the bills, Governor Alia urged the people of the state to set aside partisanship when it comes to law and order. He emphasized that the laws he signed were not about political affiliations but about protecting and preserving the state for future generations with genuineness, legitimacy, sincerity, and truth.

Governor Alia also clarified that the existing Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law remains unchanged.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring lasting peace in Benue State and warned against intra- and inter-state crises. Alia called on traditional rulers to help maintain peace in their communities.

The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hyacinth Aondona Dajoh, presented the bills to the Governor, highlighting the 10th Assembly’s dedication to enacting laws that positively impact the people of Benue.

The Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice and Public Order, Barr. Fidelis Bemsen Mnyim, assured that no part of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law was repealed.