Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has issued a two-week ultimatum to herdsmen operating in Owerri, the state capital.
The Imo State government in its directive mandated the cattle herders to end open grazing across the state capital.
The commissioner for Livestock Development, Anthony Mgbeahurike, disclosed this during a meeting with cattle dealers and herders in the state.
Mgbeahurike said the directive to end open grazing takes effect from July 24, 2025.
He also noted that his is aimed at maintaining public orderliness across the capital city of Owerri.
“Government urges all stakeholders to understand the need for mutual respect for peaceful coexistence.
“Herders should respect the rights of local farmers by preventing crop damage and compensating farmers for any damage and losses,” Mgbeahurike stated.
He added that the Imo state government has been providing support, in terms of free anthrax vaccination for cattle, among others to the herders.
Mgbeahurike said the state government is deeply concerned about the rampant open grazing and its effect on the social and economic engagements.
In his reaction, Alhaji Shuaibu, the new leader of the herders in Imo State apologised for the activities of his colleagues.
Shuaibu said, “We are very sorry for violating the grazing law in the past, and we assure that we will strictly adhere to the new directive.