Ogun Reaffirms Open Grazing Ban: 3-Year Jail for Offenders

Opened Grazing

In a firm reiteration of its stance on open grazing, the Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning to cattle owners and herders: any violation of the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, 2020 will attract severe legal consequences, including a minimum three-year jail term and the forfeiture of livestock to the state.

This announcement, made on Tuesday by Hon. Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, follows growing reports of open grazing obstructing traffic, damaging farmlands, and breaching public safety across the state.

The anti-open grazing law, signed in 2021, was designed to resolve persistent clashes between herders and farmers, which have led to violence, crop destruction, and loss of lives and property. The legislation mandates that all cattle and livestock rearing must take place within government-approved ranches, with clear penalties for non-compliance.

“The law prescribes not less than three years’ imprisonment without the option of a fine for anyone who grazes livestock outside permitted ranches,” Akinmade emphasized. “The livestock involved will also be confiscated by the state government.”

The Ogun State Government reaffirmed its support for modern, regulated animal husbandry, stating that responsible cattle rearing remains welcome within legal boundaries. However, any act that disrupts public order or infringes upon the property and livelihoods of other citizens under the guise of cattle grazing will not be tolerated.

“No one has the right to block roads, trespass on private farmland, or provoke conflict under the pretext of animal rearing,” Akinmade warned. “The era of lawlessness is over. We are committed to protecting both lives and livelihoods in every part of the state.”

The government also announced plans to intensify enforcement of the grazing law across all local government areas. Herders found operating outside approved ranches will be swiftly apprehended and prosecuted. This firm stance, according to officials, is essential to uphold peace, safeguard agricultural productivity, and support sustainable livestock development in Ogun State.

Key Takeaways:

• Open grazing is strictly prohibited in Ogun State under the 2020 Grazing Regulation Law.

• Offenders risk at least 3 years imprisonment without the option of fine.

• All confiscated cattle or livestock will become property of the state.

• The law applies statewide and will be enforced vigorously.

• Modern ranching is the only lawful option for cattle owners and herders.

This directive serves as a reminder to all stakeholders that coexistence, respect for property rights, and compliance with state laws are non-negotiable for long-term peace and agricultural development in Ogun State.

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