Kokori Herders’ Attack: Akpowowo Meets Stakeholders, Proffers Solutions On Enforcement Of Anti-Open Grazing Law

The Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Olorogun) Arthur Akpowowo Esq, has met with leaders and stakeholders of Kokori Community in Ethiope East Local Government Area following the recent attack by suspected cattle herders on an indigent member of the community.

The meeting, which held at the Kokori Progress Union Secretariat, was aimed at finding lasting solutions to prevent a recurrence of such incidents and to ensure the effective implementation of the Delta State Anti-Open Grazing Law.

Rt. Hon. Akpowowo, who represents Ethiope East State Constituency, was flanked by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Isiokolo Division, CSP Itedjere, and accompanied by some of his aides.

The stakeholders were led by the President General of Kokori Community, Chief Engr. Joseph Aghwute.

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Speaker disclosed that he had received a copy of the petition written by the community to the Executive Governor of Delta State regarding the incident.

He stated that, as a responsive and responsible representative, it was incumbent upon him to act promptly in the interest of his constituents.

Rt. Hon. Akpowowo urged the community to adopt the “Egbo method” as an immediate measure to enforce the Anti-Open Grazing Law.

He explained that this involves formally inviting the leaders of the herders in the area and giving them a two-week ultimatum to either secure a designated place to house their cattle or vacate the community entirely.

He further emphasized that any herder found thereafter grazing openly should be arrested along with the cattle and handed over to the police for appropriate action.

The Deputy Speaker assured the people of Kokori of his unwavering support, stating that he stands firmly with the community at all times as part of his constitutional mandate.

He noted that the approach discussed would serve as a model for other communities within Ethiope East Constituency and, by extension, across Delta State, as a means of curbing the persistent herders–farmers crisis.

Rt. Hon. Akpowowo also assured stakeholders that he would formally brief His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, on the situation in Kokori.

As part of his visit, he paid a visit to the victim of the attack, who is currently recovering and receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital.

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The Deputy Speaker reminded the gathering that, as Chairman of the House Committee on Legislative Compliance, his committee is saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that all laws enacted by the Delta State House of Assembly are fully complied with across the state.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by community leaders and security agencies to work collaboratively towards maintaining peace, safety, and the rule of law in Kokori Community.