The World Igbo Congress (WIC) and the American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID) have expressed their opposition to the proposed establishment of a cattle ranch in Enugu State. They argue that cattle ranching, a private enterprise, is not in line with the values of the Igbo community.
In a joint statement addressed to Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, the groups expressed their concerns about the potential negative impacts of such a project. They cited the unsuccessful implementation of a similar program by former Governor Orji Uzo Kalu of Abia State as a cautionary tale.
The groups also referenced recent reports of over 80 casualties near the Lokpanta cattle market, believed to be Igbo natives, as further evidence of their concerns. They warned that the establishment of a cattle ranch could lead to serious consequences, as cattle herders are often linked to violence and disorder.
The statement urged the governor to take prudent measures to protect the region from potential threats and encroachments disguised as ranching activities. The groups offered their collaboration to enhance the safety and well-being of residents in Enugu State and the wider Southeast region.
They also pointed out that no part of Nigeria has allocated land for Igbo settlements or enterprises, despite the vast expanses of land suitable for ranching in the northern regions of the country.
The groups concluded by urging the governor to focus on essential governance aspects such as education, infrastructure, reliable power supply, and poverty alleviation for the benefit of the people of Enugu State.
