From Obinna Odogwu, Awka
Anambra State government has resolved to commence the implementation of its anti-open grazing law from September, 2022.
It said that the step became necessary to forestall future occurrence of clashes between farmers and herders in the state.
This was disclosed by the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, during a meeting with members of Anambra State Cattle Menace Committee held at the Government House, Awka.
Soludo said that he was sad that herdsmen still paraded the streets of Anambra, thereby violating the anti-open grazing law of the state signed last year with reckless abandon.
He said that the menace would have to stop and sanity restored for the benefit of everybody including the herdsmen.
The governor advised the herders and every other person or group of people interested in livestock business to ensure they obey the laws of the state while carrying out their businesses.
He said that part of the move was to ensure that the issue of farmers- herders clashes were put to rest.
Soludo, who commended the committee members for their devotion to duty, said that Ndi Anambra are peace-loving and friendly people who love operating in social harmony with everyone, including cattle rearers, and therefore urged everyone to help maintain the existing peace in the state.
Soludo reminded all that his administration had launched initiatives to encourage tree-planting because of the ecological problems affecting the state and as such, the state does not have enough land to accommodate open grazing.
He explained that erosion was dealing badly with the state, adding that efforts would be put in place to checkmate the menace.
