Herdsmen Allegedly Destroy Five-Hectare Rice Plantation in Ogun

A group of herdsmen, accompanied by a large number of cows, allegedly invaded and destroyed a five-hectare rice plantation owned by Okegbenro Julius in Ilupeju Ibaro Village, Abeokuta.

According to a statement by police spokesperson Omolola Odutola on Monday, January 27, the herdsmen caused significant damage to the crops. Upon realizing they were being observed, they fled the scene, leaving behind one of their cows.

Odutola reported that Julius, the landowner, filed a complaint with the Ilupeju Division of the police command.

In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, instructed the DPO to organize an emergency meeting with community leaders and representatives from both the farming and herding communities.

She said, “In a commendable display of proactive policing, the Ogun State Police Command has successfully averted a potential farmers/herders conflict following an incident involving the destruction of farmland in Ilupeju Ibaro Village, Abeokuta.

“According to one Mr Okegbenro Julius of Favour CDA, Imala Elega, at approximately 6 pm, a group of herdsmen with a large number of cows invaded his five-hectare rice plantation and caused extensive destruction to his crops.

“A security guard employed on the farm documented the incident via video recording as evidence.

“Upon realizing that they were being observed, the herdsmen fled the scene, taking most of their cows with them; however, one cow was detained in the process.”

The Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, reassured residents of the state that the police command is dedicated to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all citizens.

He emphasized that efforts would continue to engage all parties involved in order to foster understanding and prevent conflicts.