The Ogun State Government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the ban on open grazing, warning that violators now risk a minimum of three years imprisonment without an option of fine and forfeiture of their cattle.
The warning was issued on Tuesday in a statement by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy. Akinmade emphasized that the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, 2020, signed by the governor in 2021, remains in full force and will be enforced to the letter.
The renewed warning follows increasing reports of herders obstructing traffic and destroying farmlands across the state in defiance of the anti-open grazing law.
“The Ogun State Government has observed cases of traffic obstruction, farmland invasion, and crop destruction by some herders in various parts of the state,” the statement read. “These actions are clear violations of an existing law and will no longer be tolerated.”
Akinmade explained that the legislation was introduced to curb rising clashes between farmers and herders, protect the livelihoods of citizens, and promote modern cattle rearing practices.
“For clarity, the law stipulates a jail term of not less than three years for offenders, without the option of a fine. It also empowers the government to seize and forfeit herds of cattle or any livestock under the control of such violators,” he said.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to modern livestock management and agricultural reforms, stressing that the law was enacted in the interest of public peace and food security.
The government urged cattle owners, herders, and relevant stakeholders to comply with the law or face the full wrath of its provisions.
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