On Wednesday, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State signed the Public Ranch Management Agency bill into law, aiming to resolve conflicts between herders and farmers in the state.
Additionally, the governor approved three other bills: the Enugu State Environmental and Climate Protection bill, the Enugu State Sports Development Fund bill, and the Enugu State Properties Protection bill.
During the signing ceremony, held in the presence of Speaker Uche Ugwu of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Governor Mbah emphasized that these laws are designed to benefit the residents of Enugu State. He thanked the lawmakers for their continued support and the swift handling of executive bills.
“We do not take your support for granted. We recognize the importance of having a legal framework to achieve our goals. Robust policies must be guided by law,” Governor Mbah stated.
Addressing the Public Ranch Management Agency Law, Governor Mbah acknowledged that the bill had been controversial and misunderstood by some. He clarified that the government was solely focused on ranching.
“We must end open cattle grazing to prevent conflicts between farmers and herders. Our objective is to eliminate such friction. In the 21st century, there is no reason to encourage open grazing. This bill will help people adopt more civilized practices by providing designated areas for cattle, with sufficient pasture, abattoirs, and proper markets,” he explained.
Speaker Uche Ugwu noted that since the start of the 8th Assembly, the executive had submitted significant bills that require the governor’s assent to become effective. “These bills will transform the landscape, economy, and overall standard of living for the citizens and residents of Enugu State,” he said.
