Governor Okowa signs anti-open grazing bill into law

Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta has signed into law, the Anti-Open Grazing bill, which prohibits open grazing, indiscriminate breeding, rearing, and marketing of livestock in the state.

The State House of Assembly, during its plenary, last Tuesday had passed the anti-open grazing bill following a motion moved by the Majority Leader of the House, Ferguson Onwo.

The Speaker of the House of Assembly, Sheriff Oborevwori while reacting to the passage of the bill, expressed happiness over the development, while noting the importance and fulfillment of the bill as reached by the South-South Governors’ during their meeting held in the state.

Oborevwori explained that the passing of the bill meant well for residents, who sought to venture into livestock farming, as it also provides safety to food crop farmers, who can farm without fear of their crops being tampered with.

“With the passage of this bill, well-meaning persons who seek to carry on the business of breeding, rearing, and marketing of livestock shall do so within the boundaries of the law. Also, farmers can now go about their businesses without fear of anyone grazing on their crops. This for sure will boost food production in the state.

“Dear colleagues, this Bill is a right step in the right direction as our women can now go to their farmlands without fear of molestation. Once again, I thank you all for your untiring support as always and your resolute commitment in the passage of people-oriented bills such as this.”

Signing the bill into law on Thursday, in his office at the Government House, Asaba, Governor Okowa commended the state lawmakers for a job well done.

Present at the event were the Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Ochor Ochor; Clerk of the House, Lyna Ochulor; Deputy Governor, Barr Kingsley Otuaro; Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah; Chief of Staff, Festus Agas and other principal officers.