Imo State Government Sets 24 July 2025 Deadline To End Open Grazing.
The Imo State Government has issued a firm directive to cattle herders, mandating an end to open grazing in the state capital, Owerri, by 24 July 2025. The announcement, aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence and maintaining public order, was made by Dr Anthony Mgbeahurike, the Commissioner for Livestock Development, during a stakeholders’ meeting with cattle breeders and herders in Owerri. The move addresses growing concerns over unchecked grazing practices that have disrupted daily life and strained relations between herders and local farmers.
Dr Mgbeahurike emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring harmony and safeguarding the socio-economic stability of Imo State. He noted that the administration of Governor Hope Uzodimma has previously supported herders with initiatives such as free anthrax vaccinations for cattle. However, the commissioner stressed that the persistent roaming of livestock in urban areas, which has led to crop damage and public disorder, can no longer be tolerated. “Herders must respect the rights of local farmers by preventing crop destruction and offering prompt compensation for any damage caused,” Mgbeahurike urged.
In a significant step to enforce the directive, the government announced the appointment of Alhaji Shuaibu as the new leader of herders in Imo State. Shuaibu, responding to the announcement, expressed gratitude for the government’s support and pledged full compliance with the new policy. “We are very sorry for violating grazing laws in the past, and we assure the government that we will strictly adhere to this directive,” he stated, committing to promote peace, order, and hygiene within herding communities.
The decision marks a shift from Governor Uzodimma’s earlier stance in 2021, when he resisted calls for an anti-open grazing law, citing a partnership model between farmers and herders. This new directive aligns more closely with the broader Southern Governors’ Forum resolution to curb open grazing, reflecting a renewed effort to address farmer-herder tensions. The government has warned that enforcement measures will commence immediately after the 24 July deadline, urging all stakeholders to comply to ensure lasting peace and development in the state.
Residents of Owerri have welcomed the move, with many expressing hope that it will reduce conflicts and enhance the city’s livability. The Imo State House of Assembly, which previously confirmed the existence of a 2006 anti-grazing law from the tenure of former Governor Achike Udenwa, is expected to support the enforcement of this directive. As the deadline approaches, the government’s focus on mutual respect and cooperation sets a positive tone for resolving longstanding challenges in the region.
