The Imo State House of Assembly has resolved to invite various security agencies in the state to provide adequate security for farmers and their farms against herdsmen invasions.
The House made the resolution following the adoption of a motion moved by the member representing Nkwerre Constituency, Chisom Ojukwu, on the issue of the invasion of farmlands by criminal elements disguised as herders.
Presenting the motion, the lawmaker explained that reports from farmers revealed that most farmlands in the state are no longer safe.
He observed that if this development is left unchecked, it will lead to food scarcity, which will negatively impact the economic and social well-being of Imo citizens.
“If this persistent insecurity of farms and farmers is not urgently nipped in the bud, it will not only lead to financial losses for the farmers but also exacerbate the food insecurity situation in our state. Farmers may resort to self-help, which could give rise to a very serious security concern in the state,” he said.
Ojukwu prayed that the House should urge the Governor of the State, Hope Uzodinma, to direct the Ministry of Homeland Security and other relevant agencies to urgently find a lasting solution to farmers’ security.
After much deliberation on the motion, the House directed the House Committee on Agriculture to convene a joint meeting with the Commissioner for Agriculture, Livestock, Homeland Security, and other relevant agencies to brainstorm on ways to intensify intelligence gathering and surveillance activities to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of attacks on farmers.
The House also resolved to urge the governor to direct the Ministry of Homeland Security to commence immediate profiling and registration of scavengers and those involved in buying farm produce in the state.