The Isoko North Local Government Council, led by Chairman Hon. (Elder) Prince Godwin Ogorugba, is prepared to implement the Anti-Open Grazing Law in the local government area. This law, which was enacted by the Delta State government in 2021, prohibits the open grazing of livestock throughout the state.
Chairman Ogorugba made this announcement during a Security and Peace Committee meeting held on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in the Council EXCO Chamber. The meeting included traditional rulers, community president-generals, heads of security agencies, vigilante groups, and leaders of Fulani herders and the Arewa community.
The chairman stressed the importance of taking proactive measures to address the crises between herders and farmers, which have led to loss of lives, property damage, and disruptions to farming activities over the years. He urged all herders and livestock owners to either purchase or lease land for ranching their livestock or vacate Isoko North local government land by December 22, 2024.
He reiterated that livestock such as cattle, goats, and sheep must be kept in ranches rather than being allowed to graze openly, as open grazing often leads to conflicts between farmers and herders. "You can't use your own business to destroy another person's livelihood," he stated.
Chairman Ogorugba remarked, "The enforcement of this law is a welcome development aimed at addressing the long-standing conflicts between herders and farmers in Isoko North and Delta State at large. By prohibiting open grazing, the council hopes to reduce the incidence of clashes and promote peaceful coexistence between the people of Isoko North and Fulani herders."
He also revealed that the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law includes provisions for establishing a task force to oversee its implementation. Full enforcement will commence on December 22, 2024. He urged all security agencies, vigilante groups, traditional rulers, community president-generals, and other stakeholders to strictly comply with the existing Anti-Open Grazing Law. The meeting was well-attended by Isoko North traditional rulers, community president-generals, representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, SSS, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, Nigeria Immigration Service, vigilante leaders, and leaders from the Fulani and Arewa communities.
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