Otu Oka-iwu Abuja Backs ASITU, Opposes Federal Government’s Ranching Plans In Imo State
Otu Oka-iwu Abuja has endorsed the March 11, 2025, press statement from the Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU). The legal association supports ASITU’s opposition to the Federal Government’s plan to establish cattle ranches in Imo State under the 2025 budget.
ASITU argues that cattle rearing is a private business and government funding of ranches for select groups is unfair. Otu Oka-iwu Abuja agrees, stating that taxpayer money should not be used to support private businesses while other sectors lack similar assistance.
Concerns over Land Scarcity and Forced Acquisition
The group also warns that government-backed land acquisition for ranching in Imo State could set a dangerous precedent. With limited land resources in the South East, they insist that all businesses should have equal access through legal land acquisition processes.
The legal group highlights the ongoing challenges of land scarcity in Imo State and the wider South East. They argue that allocating land for cattle ranching will worsen existing pressures on land for agriculture, urban development, and infrastructure.
Otu Oka-iwu Abuja also condemns the trend of state authorities seizing land from Igbo businessmen while favouring external interests. They describe such actions as an unacceptable injustice that further marginalises the Igbo people.
The group insists that individuals interested in cattle rearing in the South East must acquire land privately, following legal procedures. They warn against using state power to take ancestral lands for business interests that do not benefit the local communities.
Otu Oka-iwu Abuja believes the ranching plan reflects a broader pattern of government policies favoring certain ethnic groups at the expense of others. They argue that such policies deepen divisions and reinforce systemic marginalisation.
Call for Immediate Policy Review
The legal association urges the Federal Government to withdraw the proposed ranching scheme immediately. They call for a fair approach that ensures all businesspeople, regardless of ethnicity, have equal opportunities to acquire land legally.
Otu Oka-iwu Abuja also demands that the government focus on economic policies that benefit all Nigerians, rather than promoting the business interests of a specific group.
The group vows to resist any attempts to seize Igbo land for private gain without proper consultation and consideration of local interests. They emphasise their determination to fight against any form of marginalisation affecting the South East.
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