The Ogun State government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, enacted in 2021, warning that anyone found violating the law will face serious consequences.
In a statement issued by Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, the government raised alarm over a growing number of open grazing incidents across the state.
These include herders reportedly obstructing traffic and damaging farmlands, actions which the government said would no longer be tolerated.
Akinmade condemned the persistent violations and underlined the administration’s readiness to apply the law strictly.
“The government of Ogun State has observed cases of obstruction of traffic, invasion of people’s farmlands and destruction of crops across this state,” he said.
“This is a violation of existing law and will not be tolerated a minute longer. For the avoidance of doubt, the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law prescribed a jail term of not less than three years without the option of fine, including the forfeiture of the herds of cattle or livestock under his/her control to the state government for anyone who rears, herd or grazes any livestock in any part of the state except within the permitted ranches or anyone who rears cattle or livestock outside the permitted ranches after the commencement of the law.”
He further emphasized that the law remains fully in force and will be implemented without hesitation to protect both public infrastructure and private property.
“That is the law and it will continue to be enforced with vigour. 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,” he said.
“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.”
The government urged all herders and livestock owners to comply fully with the legislation to avoid arrest and the potential seizure of their animals.
