The Ogun State Government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, warning herders and cattle owners that violations will attract severe penalties.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, reminded the public that the law, signed by Governor Dapo Abiodun in 2021, remains fully in effect.
The renewed warning follows repeated reports of herders obstructing traffic and engaging in open grazing across various parts of the state.
“The state government is disturbed by the disregard for the law, particularly by some herders who continue to graze cattle in public spaces and on farmlands, destroying crops and endangering lives,” Akinmade said. “This government will no longer tolerate such lawlessness.”
The law strictly prohibits open grazing and mandates that livestock be reared only within designated ranches.
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It prescribes a minimum three-year jail term—without the option of a fine—for any violator. In addition, offenders risk forfeiting their cattle or livestock to the state.
Akinmade emphasized that the legislation was enacted to prevent violent clashes between herders and farmers and to promote safe, modern livestock management practices.
“For the avoidance of doubt, anyone caught grazing animals outside permitted ranches will face the full wrath of the law,” he said. “The government is determined to protect farmlands, maintain order, and ensure the safety of all residents.”
He assured that enforcement agencies have been directed to intensify surveillance and clamp down on violators across the state.