The Abia State House of Assembly has taken urgent steps to address the rising incidents of herdsmen invasions and destruction of farmlands in Umuahia North Local Government Area, following complaints from affected residents.
Speaker Emmanuel Emeruwa, who presided over the plenary session, gave immediate legislative attention to the matter after a petition was presented by Hon. Anderson Akaliro, describing the situation as an “invasion” that threatens food security and the livelihoods of local farmers.
Akaliro lamented that despite the existence of Abia State’s 2018 anti-open grazing law, herdsmen continue to encroach on farmlands in the Umuagu Autonomous Community, destroying crops and heightening tensions in the area.
In response, Speaker Emeruwa directed that the petition be referred to the House Joint Committee on Security and Agriculture for thorough investigation and urgent recommendations. The committee has been tasked with engaging relevant stakeholders and proposing concrete measures to enforce existing laws and restore peace in the affected communities.
The Speaker’s swift intervention has been commended by political observers, who say it demonstrates proactive and responsive leadership aimed at protecting vulnerable farming communities.
Residents of Umuagu and surrounding areas have expressed hope that the Assembly’s engagement will lead to practical solutions that will halt further invasions, safeguard agricultural production, and ease growing tensions in the state.
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