Police, DSS frustrating enforcement of anti-open grazing law – Delta assembly alleges
The Delta State House of Assembly has accused security agencies of failing to enforce the state’s anti-open grazing law.
Deputy Speaker and Chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Compliance, Arthur Akpowowo, who made the allegation, accused the agencies of sabotage.
He condemned the police and the Department of State Services, DSS, for summoning local government officials that had begun enforcing the law.
The deputy speaker vowed that the lawmakers would not be intimidated or deterred from ensuring full compliance with the law.
Akpowowo explained that the security agencies were undermining efforts by local governments to implement the law and reaffirmed the commitment of the House to ensure full compliance with the ban throughout the state.
Briefing newsmen in Asaba, Akpowowo emphasized that the implementation of the law is a priority for the state, warning that any local government that fails to enforce the law in 2025 will face heavy sanctions.
“It is unacceptable that certain security agencies are questioning the enforcement efforts of local councils.
“The Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law was passed and signed to address critical issues, and its enforcement must not be obstructed by any agency.
“We will not be intimidated or deterred from ensuring full compliance.
“The grace period for compliance has long elapsed and we expect all 25 local government councils in the state to act decisively. This House will continue to stand firm on this matter to protect the interests of Delta State and its people,” he said.
The lawmaker commended the local governments that have commenced enforcing the law and urged others to emulate them.
