Ukwuani’s Sacred Forest Guardians vs Oshimili’s Vanishing Green Heritage

In Ukwuani Local Government Area, deep-rooted customs strictly protect forests. Tree felling is forbidden unless a tree falls naturally. In Ezhionum, a designated committee oversees access and punishes anyone caught cutting live trees. In Umutu, no one may fell a tree without the Okpala-Uku’s consent. Offenders pay restitution with a goat, yam tubers, palm wine and a fine. These traditions ensure forests thrive and local livelihoods endure. By contrast, Oshimili communities such as Asaba, Ibusa and Okpanam lack effective regulation. Land is often sold indiscriminately and rivers like the Oduche stream suffer pollution from nearby poultry farms. Community leaders have yet to take action, leaving these resources at risk.

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