BREAKING NEWS: Imo State Government Issues July 24, 2025 Deadline to End Open Grazing

In a decisive move aimed at curbing rising tensions between farmers and herders, the Imo State Government has issued a firm deadline of July 24, 2025, for all herders in the state to end open grazing or face strict enforcement measures.

The announcement was made by state officials earlier today, signaling a significant shift in policy amid growing security concerns, destruction of farmland, and recurrent clashes between local communities and nomadic herders. According to the government, the new directive is part of a broader strategy to enforce the state's anti-open grazing law and promote modern ranching systems.

“By July 24th, any form of open grazing within Imo State will be considered illegal,” a top government source stated. “Security agencies have been briefed, and mobile enforcement teams will be deployed across all local government areas to ensure full compliance.”

The move comes amid mounting pressure from farmers, civil society groups, and traditional leaders, who have long decried the devastation caused by unrestricted cattle movement across farmlands. Reports of crop destruction, violent clashes, and loss of lives have become frequent, with many residents accusing authorities of failing to act decisively—until now.

Governor Hope Uzodimma is said to be fully backing the directive, insisting that peace, food security, and lives must take precedence over outdated grazing practices.

Reactions are already pouring in. While many residents have welcomed the move, describing it as long overdue, Miyetti Allah and herder associations have appealed for an extension, citing the need to prepare for a proper transition to ranching.

Security experts say the success of this ban will depend on strict, unbiased enforcement and genuine government support for herders who are willing to embrace ranching.

As the July 24 deadline looms, all eyes are now on Imo State—will this bold stance finally bring an end to open grazing-related conflicts in the region, or will it open a new chapter of resistance and unrest? The clock is ticking.