The Enugu State Government and rice farmers in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area have raised concerns over the destruction of farmlands and critical irrigation infrastructure by herders and their cattle at the Ada Rice Farm. The widespread damage has sparked fears of a significant setback to rice production efforts in the region.
The state Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Patrick Ubru, expressed dismay over the destruction, describing it as a major blow to the government’s investment in agricultural development. Speaking on Monday in Enugu, Mr. Ubru noted that the canal, recently rehabilitated with counterpart funds amounting to millions of naira, was rendered dysfunctional by herders’ cattle.
“It is deeply unfortunate that cattle have damaged a canal meant to ensure the livelihood of farmers and their families in this area. This project was designed to make the Ada Rice Irrigation System operational for dry season farming. Despite this setback, we remain committed to repairing the damage and ensuring the project succeeds,” Mr. Ubru stated.
The commissioner also disclosed that the government is working to strengthen security in the area by deploying personnel, vigilance groups, and forest guards to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. He emphasized the importance of the project for the state’s agricultural aspirations and called for collective efforts to protect the investment.
The destroyed canal, a 22.45-kilometer-long irrigation system, was constructed under the federal government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda Support Programme, Phase One, with funding from the African Development Bank. The project was designed to provide a steady water supply to 1,500 hectares of rice fields, with the goal of transforming the Uzo-Uwani area into a major rice production hub.
However, before the canal’s commissioning, cattle reportedly invaded the area, causing significant damage to both the farmlands and irrigation infrastructure. Farmers in the area expressed deep frustration, fearing the damage could derail their plans for dry season farming.
One farmer, who spoke anonymously, lamented the extent of the destruction, stating, “We were looking forward to utilizing this irrigation facility for dry season farming, but the damages caused by cattle crossing the canal are alarming. If this continues, the canal may not function effectively.”
Another farmer, Ben, appealed to federal, state, and local authorities to address the issue urgently. “This situation threatens not only our livelihoods but also the federal government’s aim of making this region a rice production hub. Immediate action is needed to safeguard the project,” he said.
Some farmers, like Roseline Monday, disclosed that the recurring presence of herders and their cattle has forced them to abandon their farms. “We are living in fear. The excitement of starting dry season farming has been dampened by the constant threat posed by these roaming cattle. The damage to the canal will disrupt water flow and jeopardize our farming activities,” Mrs. Monday lamented.
A youth farmer, Ifeanyi, echoed similar concerns, noting that many farmers are apprehensive about potential clashes between farmers and herders. “We just want to farm on our lands peacefully. But the presence of these animals is a great threat to our farming operations,” he said, urging the government to intervene promptly.
The ongoing destruction of farmlands and critical infrastructure poses a significant challenge to the federal government’s ambition to boost rice production in the region. Farmers and government officials alike are calling for swift action to prevent further setbacks and ensure the success of the Ada Rice Irrigation Project.
By Saifullahi Muhammad
