By Uche Mbah
Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, of Ondo state has signed into Law the Anti-Grazing Bill passed by the State House of Assembly, effectively ignoring the agitation of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, MACBAN, that such law must not come to effect.
The umbrella body of cattle breeders in the country had frowned on the position taken by the Southern Governors, calling it a time bomb.
Governor Akeredolu thinks otherwise.
While signing the bill into law in Akure, the state’s capital the Ondo helmsman said his action was in line with Southern Governors decision on the issue.
Akeredolu said in a statement that “The move is in line with the resolution of the Southern Governors’ Forum at its last meeting in Lagos where eptember 1st was set as the deadline for Governors in Southern Nigeria to sign the Anti-Open Grazing Bill into law.
“This is worthwhile and a very laudable development aimed at stemming needless instances of skirmishes, conflicts as well as infractions on the enviably peaceful disposition of the good people of Ondo State.
It is very pertinent to aver and indeed, reiterate that the Law shall rather, engender a more cordial, mutually benefiting relationship amongst residents of the State irrespective of ethnicity, religion or creed. For emphasis, no particular group of persons is the target.
“While it is the hope of Government that all residents would take ample advantage of this Law to enhance our socio-economic well being in Ondo State, compliance of same shall be given the utmost attention. Government shall pursue with vigor, through lawful means, to ensure strict compliance.
“In this regard, details of the new Law shall be made available to the public for proper information, more depth of understanding on contents as well as other relevant areas”, the statement said.
