By Sophia Afolabi

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has issued a firm two-week deadline to herdsmen to end open grazing within Owerri, the state capital, as part of a new push to restore order and protect farmlands.

The directive, which takes effect from July 24, 2025, was announced by the state Commissioner for Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, during a meeting with cattle dealers and herders.

“The government urges all stakeholders to understand the need for mutual respect for peaceful coexistence,” Mgbeahurike said. “Herders must respect farmers’ rights by avoiding crop destruction and offering compensation where damage occurs.”

According to the commissioner, the policy is designed to curb the social and economic disruptions caused by rampant open grazing. He also highlighted that the state has shown support to the herding community through measures like free anthrax vaccinations for cattle.

Reacting to the announcement, the newly appointed leader of the herders in Imo, Alhaji Shuaibu, apologized for past violations and pledged compliance.

“We are very sorry for violating the grazing law in the past, and we assure that we will strictly adhere to the new directive,” he said.

The Imo government emphasized that failure to comply with the ban could lead to enforcement actions as it works to maintain public order across the capital.