The Imo State government has issued two-week ultimatum to cattle herders to stop open grazing in Owerri, the state capital.
According to the Commissioner for Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, the ultimatum which takes effect from July 24, 2025, aims to maintain public orderliness within the capital city.
Speaking during a meeting with cattle dealers and herders in Owerri, the commissioner underscored the need for visitors to respect the laws of host communities, noting that the rights of farmers whose crops were being damaged must be respected.
“Government urges all stakeholders to understand the need for mutual respect for peaceful coexistence,” Mgbeahurike said.
“Herders should respect the rights of local farmers by preventing crop damage and compensating farmers for any damage and losses.”
Mgbeahurike reaffirmed Governor Hope Uzodinma’s commitment to upholding peaceful coexistence across all communities, regardless of ethnic or religious differences.
He noted that the state government had been providing support to herders, including free anthrax vaccination for cattle.
However, Mgbeahurike expressed concern over uncontrollable grazing practices that had disrupted citizens’ activities in the state capital, negatively impacting their social and economic engagements.
The new leader of cattle herders in the state, Alhaji Shuaibu, apologized for past violations and assured that his members would adhere to the new directive.
“We are very sorry for violating grazing law in the past, and we assure that we will strictly adhere to the new directive,” Shuaibu said.
