Eze Oliver Ohanwe, the paramount ruler of Isiama Autonomous community and a prominent traditional leader, has voiced concerns over the nation’s food crisis and hyperinflation.
The traditional ruler has called for the immediate and compulsory reinstatement of agricultural science in both primary and secondary schools across the country.
Eze Ohnawe, who is also the Vice Chairman of the Association of Christian Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, expressed deep concern over the neglect of agriculture, a sector that once was the mainstay of the nation’s economy and was particularly important to the Igbo people.
He explained that the absence of agricultural science education in schools has further compounded the issue, as this discourages the younger generation from pursuing careers in agriculture.
Speaking to journalists after the 2024 edition of his annual “new yam festival” at his palace, Eze Ohanwe highlighted the threat posed by the influx of herdsmen into fertile farming areas.
He lamented that these intrusions disrupt agricultural activities and endanger the lives of farmers.
The traditional ruler, who doubles as the chairman of the Okigwe Zone Global Elders Forum and Vice Chairman of the South Eastern Rulers Forum, appealed to the Federal Government to take action to address the issue of herdsmen encroachment and to create a conducive environment for increased food production.
This, he said, would help mitigate the ongoing food crisis and stabilize prices, ensuring a better future for its citizens.