Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has singed the state’s anti-open grazing bill into law.
Mr Akeredolu gave his assent to the legislation which criminalises open grazing of livestock and establishes framework for construction of ranches on Tuesday.
The State House of Assembly had in July passed the bill to ban open grazing in the state following months of repeated clashes between residents and nomadic Fulani herders.
In a statement by information commissioner, Donald Ojogo, in Akure the governor said the move was in line with the resolution of the Southern Governors’ Forum at its last meeting in Lagos where September 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,” the statement read. “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 vigour, 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 added.
