Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma has expressed regret that his recent statement on open grazing law was interpreted out of context by a section of the media. He reiterated that what he said was that farmers and herders were peacefully coexisting in the state as a result of mutual respect and understanding.
The governor who spoke through the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon Declan Emelumba also disclosed that contrary to insinuations, the state has an open grazing law which became operative since 2006.
According to the governor, the law provided for areas that are restricted from open grazing and 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.
Uzodimma urged Nigerians to embrace inclusiveness and tolerance as necessary tools in building and sustaining a united country.
According to him,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.