The Association of Igbo Town Unions (ASITU) has called for an immediate halt to the federal government’s proposal to acquire land in Imo State and other Southeastern states for the establishment of cattle ranches. The initiative, part of the 2025 national budget, has sparked fierce opposition from ASITU, which warns that it could deepen ethnic tensions and further fuel feelings of marginalization in the region.
In a statement issued by its National President, Chief Emeka Diwe, ASITU criticized the plan as unfair and divisive, arguing that the initiative unfairly prioritizes cattle ranching—a private enterprise—over the pressing needs of indigenous communities.
According to the union, the proposal represents a significant injustice, particularly as Igbo entrepreneurs continue to struggle with securing land for their businesses without government support.
ASITU also raised concerns over the allocation of land for a venture that, they argue, predominantly benefits one ethnic group while neglecting the needs of local traders.
The union emphasized that the South East region is already under considerable pressure with competing demands for land due to urban expansion, agricultural development, and infrastructure projects.
Allocating further land for private cattle ranches, especially for an industry largely controlled by another ethnic group, is seen as an unacceptable burden on the indigenous population.
“Cattle ranching is a private business, and it is unreasonable for the federal government to divert public resources to fund it,” said the ASITU statement.
The union also pointed out that Igbo traders, who often face bureaucratic hurdles in acquiring land for their operations, are left to navigate the process without the same level of government support granted to cattle ranchers.
The federal government’s initiative has raised questions of equity, with ASITU questioning why ranchers are afforded preferential treatment while local businesses are left to fend for themselves.
“The government must stop prioritizing the interests of one ethnic group while disregarding the needs of others,” the statement added.
ASITU’s strong condemnation of the initiative highlights broader concerns about the perceived marginalization of the Igbo community within Nigeria.
The group called for a reassessment of the policy, urging the government to focus on fostering equality, economic progress, and national unity rather than enacting divisive policies that exacerbate regional disparities.
The union also warned that the continuation of the ranching initiative could lead to further social unrest, urging the government to abandon its plans and instead develop policies that promote fairness and balance.
“We will not stand by as our land is appropriated for private gain,” ASITU declared, vowing to resist any such measures.
