BILL TO PROHIBIT OPEN GRAZING PASSES SECOND READING AT AKHA
A Bill for a Law to prohibit open rearing and grazing of livestock and provide for the establishment of ranches, has passed Second Reading at the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
Leading debate on the Bill at Plenary on Thursday, the Member representing Oruk Anam State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Udo Keirean Akpan, said when passed into law, the Bill would prevent the destruction of farms, crops, ponds, settlements and properties caused by open rearing and grazing of livestock.
He said the Bill would also promote production of high and healthy breeds of livestock, as well as boost job and investment opportunities in livestock farming.
“The Bill will also manage the environmental impact of open livestock grazing and protect the environment from degradation and pollution caused by open rearing and grazing of livestock”, he said.
The Bill according to the Lawmaker will also promote modern techniques of animal husbandry, promote international best practices in the diary and beef industry.
He also spoke on the establishment of the Akwa Ibom State Livestock and Ranch Administration and Control Committee which he noted shall develop an integrated modern livestock development and production plan for the state.
He said the Committee will also provide technical support on the management and sustenance of ranches and organise training programmes to improve education in animal husbandry and livestock production.
The Bill which elicited unanimous support from House Members was referred to the joint Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources, as well as Lands, Housing and Urban Renewal for indepth study and to report back within two weeks.
Also at Plenary, ‘A Bill for a Law to Amend the Traditional Rulers Council Law, Cap 134, Laws of Akwa Ibom State, 2000 and for other Matters connected therewith’, and ‘A Bill for a Law to Prohibit the Use of Public Schools for Holding Events During School Hours in Akwa Ibom State and for other Matters connected therewith’ respectively sponsored by Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan (Oruk Anam) and Rt. Hon Effiong Bassey (Oron/Udung Uko), passed through First Reading.
Both Bills were referred to the Committee on Rules, Business, Ethics and Privileges for rescheduling.
In the meantime, the House has adjourned its plenary to Tuesday, 14 September, 2021 at 10am.
Press Unit,
Office of the Speaker,
Akwa lbom State House of Assembly.
