Ban on Open Grazing: Igbo Community in Delta Backs Okowa

By Sunny A Ijomah

Igbo residents in Delta State have expressed their support for Governor Ifeanyi Okowa over the ban on open grazing across the State.

The Ezendigbo in Delta Central and Southern Districts, Chief Peter Chukwu, gave the support while addressing newsmen on Monday in Warri after leading a delegation of the Igbo Community to the Palace of Olu of Warri on a condolence visit to the Itsekiris over the transition of the immediate past Olu, Ogiame Ikenwoli.

The Igbo leader urged herdsmen threatening anarchy in Delta State following the ban, to embrace peace.

He said that the Southern Governor’s position on the ban on open grazing is constitutional.

“Whoever feels agitated should approach the court of law to seek redress rather than engaging in self-help or anarchy.

“These times call for open reflection, peace and dialogue rather than beating war drums. We will never forget where we are coming from,” he said.

Chief Chukwu described late Ikenwoli as a peace-loving and cool-headed royal father who fostered a good relationship with the various ethnic groups in the state, including the Igbos.

He appealed to the Olu-designate, Omoba Tsola Emiko, to emulate Ikenwoli to sustain his good legacies.

The funeral rites of the late Ikenwoli will begin with a commendation service on June 18 in Warri, while the installation of the 21st Olu of Warri is slated for Aug. 21.