The Ogun State Government has reissued a strong warning to cattle owners and herders, stating that the practice of open grazing remains banned in the state and that violators of the law will face a minimum of three years imprisonment without the option of a fine, as well as forfeiture of their cattle or livestock to the government.
This warning was issued on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in a statement released by Mr. Kayode Akinmade, the Special Adviser to Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy. The renewed caution comes amid increasing reports of traffic obstructions, destruction of farmlands, and general public disturbance linked to open grazing activities in several parts of the state.
Akinmade reminded the public that the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Bill 2020, signed into law by Governor Abiodun in 2021, remains in full effect. The law was enacted in response to persistent violent clashes between herders and farmers, damage to agricultural lands, and threats to public safety.
“The Government of Ogun State has observed cases of obstruction of traffic, invasion of people’s farmlands, and destruction of crops across the state. This is a violation of existing law and will not be tolerated a minute longer,” Akinmade stated.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law prescribes 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 the control of any person who grazes or rears them outside of the designated ranches after the law's commencement,” he emphasized.
The government reiterated its commitment to modern and sustainable cattle-rearing practices and encouraged all livestock operators to comply with the legal framework aimed at protecting farmers, road users, and the general public.
According to Akinmade, while the state government welcomes livestock business and does not prohibit herders from operating within Ogun, their activities must be strictly within 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 warned.
He stressed that open grazing of cattle or any other animals is strictly prohibited in Ogun State, and any individual caught flouting the law will be arrested and prosecuted to the fullest extent allowed by the law.
The government’s position signals a renewed commitment to enforcing the anti-open grazing law with vigor, as it seeks to maintain peace, enhance food security, and support lawful agricultural and pastoral practices.
Ogun State remains one of the few Nigerian states that have officially outlawed open grazing, joining efforts to end the age-long herder-farmer conflicts and promote the establishment of controlled ranches as the acceptable method of livestock production.
The public is encouraged to report violations to relevant authorities to aid enforcement and ensure communal harmony.
