Abia State Cracks Down on Cattle Grazing to Boost Sanitation

Abia State authorities have announced an intensified effort to stop open cattle grazing in Umuahia, aiming to improve sanitation and uphold environmental standards in the state capital. The move was disclosed by the Deputy General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Sanitation Agency (ASEPA), Ambrose Jonah, during a meeting with the traditional leader of the Hausa community, Alhaji Yaro Danladi.

Jonah explained that unrestricted cattle movement through town has contributed to untidy streets and undermined efforts to maintain a clean, healthy living environment for residents. The agency’s plan aligns with its mandate to regulate urban cleanliness and will include enforcement of existing laws. Ranching — rather than open grazing — was promoted as a more sustainable alternative, and Danladi was asked to help relay this directive to herders in the region.

Jonah acknowledged past cooperation with the Hausa community and expressed hope for continued harmony. A task force is to be established to monitor compliance and designate routes where grazing is prohibited. Residents are urged to support the initiative and adhere to waste disposal schedules.

Danladi assured the agency of the herders’ willingness to work with the government to ensure peace and abide by the new guidelines restricting cattle access to government-reserved areas.