Otti Pledges To Implement Anti-open Grazing Law In Abia
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his strong stance against open grazing of cattle, revealing that he has directed his Senior Special Assistant on Legislative Matters to retrieve all relevant documents passed by the previous Abia State House of Assembly concerning the issue.
Governor Otti made this known during his monthly media chat held at the Government House, Umuahia, where he addressed various policy matters, including security, economic recovery, and legislative continuity.
“I am an apostle of anti-open grazing. I believe we have gone beyond carrying cows and destroying people’s farms,” Otti declared. “Let’s be sure it was passed. If it was actually passed during the past administration, then we will take it up from there.”
He emphasized that modern livestock farming does not require cattle to roam, adding, “Even the species of cows that are modern don’t need to rigmarole all over the place.”
The Governor’s comments come amid renewed calls by farmers and rural communities for the enforcement of anti-open grazing laws across the South-East, as herders’ activities continue to cause tension and destroy farmlands.
Otti said his administration is committed to law and order, and if the previous Assembly indeed passed a law prohibiting open grazing, the government will not hesitate to implement it in full.
Governor Otti also spoke on security, revealing that gunmen responsible for the murder of two Chinese nationals in Abia State last month were traced to Ebonyi State. He confirmed that security agencies have already arrested some suspects, and investigations are ongoing.
“We are working closely with security agencies. Some arrests have been made, and the incident is being thoroughly investigated,” the Governor said, reiterating his administration’s commitment to securing lives and property.
In a significant announcement, Otti revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to visit Abia State before May 29, 2025. Although he did not disclose the exact date or the purpose of the visit, the Governor hinted that the President’s presence would further enhance federal-state collaboration.
Governor Otti also took stock of his economic reforms, announcing a significant reduction of the N138 billion debt inherited from the past administration to N66 billion. He attributed this achievement to fiscal discipline, strategic planning, and prudent financial management.
“This is the result of careful fiscal responsibility. We are focused on reducing debt while investing in key infrastructure and human capital,” he said.
Governor Otti’s remarks further solidify his administration’s posture on accountability, continuity, and decisive leadership in tackling issues that affect the everyday lives of Abians.
