Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on all relevant authorities within the state to take immediate and decisive action to enforce the Anti-Open-Grazing Law. This step is critical in preventing any potential farmer-herder conflicts, which have been a source of tension in various parts of the country.
The Governor issued the directive during the 148th Executive Council Meeting at the Government House in Yenagoa. Addressing a wide range of government officials, Governor Diri emphasized that Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must work diligently to ensure the full implementation of the law, which prohibits open grazing in the state. This directive is aimed at ensuring that the law remains effective in preventing any clashes between farmers and herders that have been prevalent in several parts of Nigeria.
Governor Diri specifically called on the chairpersons of the eight Local Government Areas, the thirty-two Rural Development Authorities, traditional rulers, and other community leaders to take ownership of the law’s enforcement in their respective jurisdictions. He stressed that local leaders have a crucial role in ensuring the smooth implementation of this policy at the grassroots level.
While delivering his charge, the Governor reiterated his firm stance on ranching as the most sustainable and peaceful method of cattle rearing. He stressed that open grazing, which often leads to disputes over land use and resources, is not a viable practice for the state. Governor Diri stated that any individuals or groups found in violation of the Anti-Open-Grazing Law will be held accountable and face the full weight of the law. His administration is determined to safeguard the interests of both farmers and herders, ensuring that the environment is conducive for peaceful coexistence.
In addition to addressing open grazing, Governor Diri also directed a crackdown on the harmful practice of bush burning. He warned that bush burning, commonly used by some farmers to clear land, poses serious health risks to the environment and the people. The practice has been linked to air pollution and various respiratory diseases, and the Governor expressed his concerns over its detrimental effects.
To curb this issue, Governor Diri has tasked Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku Obiyai, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, to step up public awareness campaigns about the dangers of bush burning. He stressed the importance of educating rural communities about alternative, safer farming practices and the long-term benefits of protecting the environment. The Governor called for a more vigorous media campaign to inform the public about the environmental hazards posed by bush burning and to promote a shift towards more sustainable farming techniques.
Governor Diri’s directives come at a time when the state has been working to improve the livelihood of its rural communities, where farming is a primary source of income. His administration has made significant strides in promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and the latest steps taken to enforce the Anti-Open-Grazing Law and curb bush burning are seen as part of broader efforts to ensure that Bayelsa remains peaceful and prosperous.
The Governor’s leadership continues to reflect his commitment to the welfare of Bayelsans, with particular attention to the preservation of the environment and the promotion of peace between farmers and herders. With these new measures in place, Bayelsa aims to set a positive example for other states grappling with similar challenges, fostering a harmonious relationship between agricultural stakeholders and ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens.
