The Chief Veterinary Officer of Abia State, Dr. Nwokedi Onu, has issued a strong call for an end to the practice of open grazing, citing its growing impact on food production, public health, and environmental sustainability.

Speaking to journalists in Umuahia, Dr. Onu, who also serves as the Director of Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance at the Abia State Ministry of Agriculture, expressed alarm over the increasing destruction of farmlands by wandering cattle. He emphasized that the uncontrolled movement of livestock through streets and farmlands is not only disruptive to agricultural productivity but also escalates conflicts between farmers and herders.

“This is a disturbing reality,” Dr. Onu stated. “Cattle should be properly managed within ranches or enclosed areas where they can be fed with forage or grains, not left to roam freely, damaging crops and threatening livelihoods.”

Open Grazing: A Multi-Dimensional Threat

Dr. Onu outlined several risks associated with open grazing, particularly:

• Compromised food security: As the country faces rising food costs and shortages, he questioned how national feeding goals can be achieved if crops are consistently destroyed by livestock.
• Public health dangers: He noted that cattle frequently defecate and urinate near water sources. During rainfall, contaminated runoff flows into rivers and streams that are often used for drinking and household purposes.
• Environmental degradation: The hooves of free-roaming animals loosen soil, increase erosion, and deplete topsoil nutrients essential for crop cultivation.

Farmers vs. Herders: Escalating Conflicts

Highlighting the psychological and financial strain on affected farmers, Dr. Onu warned that the current pattern of livestock movement exacerbates tensions in rural communities and deepens the hardship for farmers who have invested time and resources into their crops.

“Farmers suffer emotional and economic devastation when cattle trample their fields. It’s unfair and unsustainable,” he said.

Mr. Victor Nnaemeka Obasi, a Director in the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, echoed these sentiments. He stressed that livestock should be confined to managed spaces, with forage provided to prevent destruction of farm produce and reduce the risk of conflict.

Rethinking Solutions: The RUGA Dilemma

Both officials acknowledged that the RUGA (Rural Grazing Area) initiative had the potential to reduce tensions and modernize livestock management. However, they raised concerns over land ownership and potential exploitation.

Dr. Onu shared that during federal consultations, it was suggested that state governments operate the scheme while the federal government provides funding. Unfortunately, this model was rejected, stalling what could have been a workable solution.

“While the RUGA idea had merit, its execution posed serious risks related to land grabbing and governance,” Obasi added.