Edo: Herder profiling aimed at security, not taxation – Prof. Omorodion


By Elvis Omoregie

Edo State Government has clarified that its ongoing profiling of herders is strictly a security measure and not a ploy to impose taxes on cattle dealers in the state.

Prof. Ikponmwosa Omorodion, Commissioner for Livestock, gave the assurance on Thursday when he received the leadership of the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, Edo State chapter, during a courtesy visit to the ministry in Benin City.

Omorodion said the state has continued to witness an influx of herders, many of whom are not properly documented, posing challenges for planning and security management.

He stressed that proper data collection was crucial for protecting both herders and farmers as well as for strengthening the livestock value chain.

“We have a ministry set up to develop the livestock sector for job creation, economic growth and enhanced security. Cattle dealing is a major sub-sector,” he said. “But can we boldly say we know the location of all the cattle in this state? If the answer is no, that is where the problem begins.”

The commissioner urged the association to take responsibility for supplying accurate data on its members, noting that cooperation with government was essential for achieving stability within the livestock ecosystem.

“If your members are resident in the forest, how are they truly your members? Do you have records or profiles of all cattle dealers? If not, then we must create a framework to achieve this,” he added.

Earlier, the association’s chairman,Yusuf Ibrahim imokhai, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the newly created ministry.

He expressed readiness to support government initiatives aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to contribute to resolving recurring herder–farmer conflicts.

“Our mandate is to work with the ministry. We pledge our loyalty and support in all areas where we are needed, especially in addressing issues of violence or crises associated with cattle operations,” he said.

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