Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma said he was quoted out of context by some section of the media on his recent comment on open grazing ban by the Southern governors.
Uzodimma who gave the clarification through the State commissioner for information and strategy, Declan Emelumba said that was he meant was that farmers and herders were peacefully coexisting in the state as a result of mutual respect and understanding.
He added that contrary to insinuations, the state has an open grazing law which became operative since 2006.
According to the Governor, the law he noted provided for areas that were restricted from open grazing, stressing that the herders have been abiding by it.
“The MOU the farmers and Herders signed was to strengthen the existing law and it is working very well, the Governor further clarified.
He regretted the extreme interpretation the media gave to his comments on the matter, saying that what was important was the peaceful way farmers and herders have been coexisting in the state.
According to him, “whereas a law on anti grazing may be desirable, dialogue and understanding as is the case in Imo state were more effective in addressing the conflict.
Uzodinma however urged Nigerians to embrace inclusiveness and tolerance as necessary tools in building and sustaining a united country.
The governor noted that all activities of the states and the people should be geared towards uniting the country and not creating divisions.
He commended farmers and herders in Imo state for living in peace and pledged the support of government towards ensuring that they sustain their cordial relationship.
[TheSun]
Gov Uzodinma, I think you are totally out of order on so many counts. It looks to me like you are pursuing rats whilst your house is on fire. In the parlance of your state some one would ask “Isi ozukwere gi oke’. Your promouncements are ridiculous and unbelievable!