The Ogun State Government has restated its commitment to the enforcement of the Anti-Open Grazing Law, warning that individuals found flouting the regulation will face severe consequences — including arrest, prosecution, up to three years imprisonment, and permanent forfeiture of cattle.

In an official statement released earlier this week, the government emphasized that the Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranch Establishment Law, signed into law in 2021 by Governor Dapo Abiodun, remains fully active and enforceable.

The renewed enforcement directive follows a wave of public complaints regarding traffic obstructions, crop destruction, and rising clashes between farmers and herders in various parts of the state. The government has declared that these activities violate the standing law, and it is ready to prosecute offenders to the fullest extent.

According to Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the Governor, the government is increasingly concerned about the disruption of daily life caused by indiscriminate livestock movement and unauthorized open grazing.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the law prescribes a minimum jail term of three years without the option of fine, and confiscation of the animals found grazing unlawfully,” Akinmade stated.

He clarified that while cattle owners and pastoralists are permitted to operate within Ogun State, such operations must adhere strictly to the law — particularly the requirement that all livestock must be kept within designated ranches. The use of public roads or private farmlands for grazing is strictly prohibited.

The government further urged community leaders, traditional rulers, and security agencies to support ongoing efforts to implement the law and ensure the protection of agricultural investments and public safety across the state.

This crackdown is part of broader efforts by the state to modernize livestock production, promote peaceful farmer-herder coexistence, and strengthen sustainable agriculture through the adoption of ranching and controlled grazing systems.

As of now, enforcement teams are on alert, and the government has made it clear that non-compliance will not be tolerated.