Imo govt orders cattle herders to end open grazing July 24th

DDM NEWS

The Imo State Government has ordered cattle herders to end open grazing within the state capital territory, effective July 24, 2025.

This directive aims to maintain public orderliness and promote peaceful coexistence between herders and local farmers.

The government seeks to maintain cleanliness and order within the capital city, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for residents.

The directive aims to promote harmonious relationships between herders and local farmers, respecting the rights of both parties.

The new leader of cattle herders in Imo State, Alhaji Shuaibu, has expressed regret for past grazing violations and assured the government of their commitment to adhering to the new policy.

Shuaibu emphasized the herders’ dedication to ensuring a clean and peaceful Imo State, acknowledging Governor Uzodinma’s inclusive initiatives.

The Commissioner for Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, urged herders to respect farmers’ rights, prevent crop damage, and compensate farmers for any losses incurred.

Mgbeahurike emphasized the need for mutual respect and peaceful coexistence between herders and farmers.

The directive may lead to improved security within the state capital, as the government seeks to regulate cattle grazing and prevent potential conflicts between herders and farmers.

By promoting peaceful coexistence and respecting farmers’ rights, the government may help boost agricultural productivity and economic growth in the state.

Speaking during a recent meeting with cattle dealers and herders in Owerri, the Commissioner in charge of Ministry of Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, said that the new directive is geared towards maintaining public orderliness within the capital city.

He, however, reaffirmed Governor Hope Uzodinma’s dedication in upholding peaceful coexistence across all communities, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

The commissioner added that the State Government, under Uzodinma, had been rendering appropriate support for herders, including steady provision of free anthrax vaccination for cattle.

He, however, observed that in recent times, it has become worrisome that there are uncontrollable grazing practices that have disrupted activities of citizens in the State Capital, negatively impacting on their social and economic engagements.

“Government urges all stakeholders to understand the need for mutual respect for peaceful coexistence.

“Herders should respect the rights of local farmers by preventing crop damage and compensating farmers for any damage and losses.

“I congratulate you, Alhaji Shuaibu, as the new leader of the cattle herders. Carry this message from the Government to your members.” he said.

Responding, the new leader of cattle herders in the State, Alhaji Shuaibu, said that the organization was very sorry for violating grazing law in the past and assured that they would strictly adhere to the new directive.

“We are sorry for past grazing violations. Uzodinma is a Governor, with inclusive initiatives.

“We, the cattle herders will comply with the new policy and we are committed to ensuring harmonious, clean Imo State,” he promised.