The leadership of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, South South zone has thrown its weight behind the resolution of the Southern Governors meeting in Asaba, that saw to the banning of open grazing in Southern Nigeria. While applauding the resolution, the Chairman of the Zone, Comr. Kenneth Okorie stated that the resolution was better late than never.
In a statement by its Director of Media, Publicity and ICT, Comr. Tomi Akporoghene Wojuola, the Council stated that the negative effects of the open grazing by far outshines whatever it has to offer owing to the destruction associated with open grazing in recent times. He further explained that the open grazing ban was not targeted at any region of the country but was done to encourage peaceful cohesion between farmers and cattle owners.
The council advised that in line with international best practices, owners of cattles should turn to ranching as against open grazing which has caused clashes between farmers and herdsmen, leaving many dead.
While chiding the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Shehu Malami SAN, over his statement on the resolution of the Southern Governors forum ban on open grazing, the Council stated that it was erroneous to compare tax paying spare part dealers who pay for shops and stalls to herders who do not pay tax, but move in their droves into farmlands, destroying farm produce, causing food scarcity.
The council advised Mr. Malami SAN to remember that his allegiance was to the country and not to a region and as such should not be blinded by sentiments when speaking on topical issues which could heat up the polity.
The council further encouraged the Southern Governors to always put the interest of their people first before any other, as they have just done with the open grazing ban.