From Moshood Karim
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Arase Ehighiator, has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to immediately enforce the Anti-Open Grazing Law, previously signed by former Governor Godwin Obaseki, to tackle the wave of violent clashes between farmers and herders.
The violent clashes, which have reportedly led to the death of several farmers and instilled fear among rural dwellers, is said to be preventing residents from returning to their farms as the cultivation season approaches. Mr Ehighiator, who is the APC youth leader in Ward II of Oredo Local Government Area, stressed that prompt implementation of the law is critical in curbing the activities of armed herders.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, Ehighiator lamented that the law, despite being signed into existence since 2022, has remained largely dormant.
“The previous administration signed the Anti-Open Grazing Bill into law but failed to enforce it. Now is the time for the Okpebholo-led administration to act decisively. Enforcing the law would place restrictions on the movement of herders and prevent the continued destruction of farmlands,” he stated.
He further recommended the reactivation and arming of local vigilante groups who, according to him, had previously been instrumental in containing security threats in farming communities.
“The local security network that once helped check the activities of these herders has been disarmed. The State government must verify and properly equip these men to return to duty. Their presence is vital in protecting our rural areas and guaranteeing food security.”
Former Governor Godwin Obaseki had signed the Anti-Open Grazing Law into effect on 27 May 2022. During a security council meeting held in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, Obaseki outlined the objectives of the law, which include the prohibition of open grazing and the creation of designated ranching areas for livestock.
The law aims to: Eliminate conflict between nomadic herders and farmers reduce environmental degradation and prevent deforestation, enhance food security by safeguarding farmlands, encourage modern livestock farming and attract investment. mitigate road accidents caused by stray animals, promote healthy animal husbandry practices.
The legislation also provides for the establishment of a Cattle and Livestock Control Committee, comprising security experts, traditional leaders, and representatives of livestock associations. This committee is empowered to regulate livestock activities, set operational standards, and impose penalties for non-compliance.
However, despite its extensive provisions, the law has yet to be implemented, leaving many communities vulnerable to insecurity and economic instability.
While making his case for enforcement of the anti-grazing legislation, Ehighiator also took time to commend Governor Okpebholo for what he described as a “practical and visible” approach to governance.
“In the last four months since he assumed office, the governor has taken bold steps to address the State’s infrastructure deficit — from roads to schools and agriculture. Unlike the previous administration that relied heavily on memoranda of understanding (MOUs), Governor Okpebholo is delivering on his promises. People can see the projects; they are not just on paper.”
He hailed the administration’s direct approach to development, stating that even the most marginalised citizens could “see and feel the difference.”
As tensions rise in farming communities, stakeholders have called on the Edo State Government to prioritise the safety of rural dwellers and food producers by enforcing laws already in place. Analysts warn that failure to do so could exacerbate the security and food crisis.
Farmers across Edo State continue to live in fear, with many abandoning their fields due to the persistent threat posed by roaming herders. With the planting season underway, calls for immediate enforcement of the anti-grazing law are growing louder.
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