The Imo State Government has issued a directive to cattle herders to stop all open grazing within the Owerri Capital Territory by July 24, 2025.
This was announced during a meeting in Owerri between the State Ministry of Livestock Development and leaders of the herding community.
Speaking at the meeting, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, said the move aims to promote peace and protect the rights of residents in the capital city.
He noted that although the government has been supportive of herders through measures like free anthrax vaccinations, open grazing has increasingly disrupted social and economic activities in Owerri.
“The government urges mutual respect among residents. Herders must avoid damaging farmlands and should compensate farmers in cases of loss,” Mgbeahurike stated.
He also introduced Alhaji Shuaibu as the new leader of the herders in the state and urged him to carry the government’s message to his members.
In response, Alhaji Shuaibu apologised for previous violations and promised compliance.
“We are sorry for our past actions. We will fully obey the new rules. Governor Uzodinma has shown fairness, and we want to support peace and order,” he said.
The new policy is part of Governor Hope Uzodinma’s broader plan to maintain peace and ensure law and order across all parts of Imo State.