In a disturbing incident that has reignited tensions between farmers and herders, a group of unidentified herdsmen allegedly invaded and destroyed a five-hectare rice plantation in Ilupeju Ibaro Village, Abeokuta, Ogun State. The farmland, belonging to one Okegbenro Julius, was reportedly overrun by a large herd of cattle, causing extensive damage to the crops.
The Ogun State Police Command disclosed the incident through its spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, who stated that the herdsmen fled the scene when they realized they had been spotted. “A security guard on the farm documented the destruction via a video recording, which will serve as evidence in the investigation. While the herders escaped with most of their cattle, one cow was left behind and detained,” she said.
Farmer’s Ordeal
Julius, the farmland owner, reported the destruction to the Ilupeju Division of the police. Speaking on his ordeal, he expressed frustration over the loss. “This farm represents years of hard work and investment. To see it destroyed in a matter of hours is heartbreaking,” Julius lamented.
Police Efforts to Mediate
Reacting swiftly to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Ilupeju to convene a meeting with stakeholders, including community leaders and representatives from the farming and herding communities. The aim, according to Odutola, is to “foster understanding and prevent future conflicts.”
“The Ogun State Police Command is committed to ensuring peace and safety for all citizens. Proactive measures are being taken to prevent farmer-herder clashes that could spiral into violence,” she added.
Escalating Tensions in Ogun
The destruction of Julius’s rice plantation is not an isolated case in Ogun State, where disputes between farmers and herders have been a recurring issue. The state has witnessed an increasing number of conflicts, often stemming from the destruction of farmlands by grazing cattle.
In a related development in the Mowe community, tensions erupted last Thursday following the killing of six cows belonging to the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria, Agege Chapter. The chairman of the group, Alhaji Muhammed, identified Baale of Amu Village, Abiodun Ogunyemi, as the prime suspect in the killing.
According to Odutola, Muhammed alleged that the cows were intentionally harmed, leaving one injured. “The police promptly arrested Ogunyemi and launched an investigation into the matter,” she revealed.
Reconciliation Efforts in Mowe
To prevent the Mowe situation from escalating, the police organized a meeting involving both parties. The Commissioner of Police instructed the DPO in Mowe to mediate between the farmers and herders. The discussions resulted in an agreement to designate specific grazing areas for the herders to avoid future conflicts.
Speaking on the resolution, Odutola noted, “Both parties pledged to maintain peace and ensure mutual respect. The villagers have agreed to allocate grazing areas to the herders, and the herders promised to avoid encroaching on farmlands.”
A Growing Concern
The incident in Abeokuta and the Mowe dispute reflect a broader challenge in Nigeria, where farmer-herder clashes have become a persistent problem. These conflicts, often fueled by competition for land and resources, have led to significant economic losses and, in many cases, loss of lives.
Agricultural experts have warned that continued destruction of farmlands could jeopardize Nigeria’s food security. “Incidents like this discourage farmers from investing in agriculture, which is critical for our nation’s economy,” said Professor Ayodele Oguntade, an agricultural economist.
Government’s Role
The Ogun State Government has faced mounting pressure to address the crisis. Farmers in the state have called for stricter regulations on open grazing and greater support from security agencies. On the other hand, herders’ representatives have advocated for more grazing reserves and government intervention to prevent conflicts.
Addressing the issue, the Commissioner of Police reiterated the need for collaboration between all stakeholders. “Peaceful coexistence is achievable if everyone plays their part. The command will continue to engage communities to foster understanding,” Ogunlowo assured.
