Anambra State in South Eastern Nigeria will commence the implementation of its anti-open grazing law in September.
Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo stated this on Saturday, during a meeting with members of the Anambra State Cattle Menace Committee, held at the Government House, Awka.
The former governor of the state, Willie Obiano, had on October 22, 2021, assented to the Cattle and Other Livestock Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Bill.
The bill, titled, ‘Anambra State open grazing of cattle and other livestock prohibition and ranches establishment bill 2021’, was passed after the third reading at plenary by the members of the state House of Assembly on October 12, 2021.
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Governor Soludo commended members of the committee for their dedication to duty. He added that Anambra seeks to promote social harmony with everyone, including herders.
He however, pointed out clearly, that they must operate within the existing laws, like other business in the state.
He added that the initiative was geared towards salvaging Anambra environment from erosion which was fast depleting the scarce land, urging them to consider gradual implementation of ranching as a modern way of cattle rearing because of its numerous advantages and money-making potential.
He said, “Now that we have law banning open grazing, the law enforcement agents have been directed to implement it.
“Though the law has been in existence since almost one year ago, cattle rearers keep parading certain areas in the state in contravention to the law.”