Ogun Reaffirms Ban On Open Grazing, Warns Of 3-Year Jail

The Ogun State Government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the ban on open grazing, warning that violators face a three-year jail term and forfeiture of their cattle.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to the Governor, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the government expressed concern over recent cases of herders obstructing traffic and grazing cattle on unauthorised lands.

Akinmade emphasised that the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, passed in 2021, remains fully operational and will be strictly enforced.

The law was enacted to curb clashes between herders and farmers, protect farmlands, and promote modern ranching practices.

“The government of Ogun State has observed cases of obstruction of traffic, invasion of people’s farmlands, and destruction of crops across this state.

“This is a violation of existing law and will not be tolerated a minute longer,” Akinmade said.

He reminded livestock owners that the law prescribes a minimum three-year imprisonment without an option of fine, in addition to the confiscation of cattle or livestock found grazing outside designated ranches.

“While cattle owners and herders are free to operate in any part of Ogun State, in line with the provisions of the law, no one has the right to impede the free flow of traffic, encroach on lands belonging to other people, or foment trouble of any kind under the guise of cattle grazing.

“Open grazing of cattle or other animals remains prohibited in Ogun State; anyone caught violating the law will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed by law,” he warned.