A potential bloodbath between farmers/herders with their Cattle, invaded and destroyed 5-hectares of rice plantation in Ilupeju Ibaro Village, Abeokuta, Ogun State, police said.
Police Command’s spokesperson in Ogun State, CSP Omolola Odutola said in a statement that a cow was rustled, following extensive destruction to the farm crops
The statement said Okegbenro Julius of Favour CDA, Imala Elega, reported the intentional damage of plantation by herdsmen at the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ilupeju Division on January 17th 2025.
Julius told police that at approximately 6PM, a group of herdsmen with a large number of cows invaded his farm and caused extensive destruction to his crops.
The statement which hailed police personnel who displayed commendable proactive policing that successfully averted, said a Guard employed on the farm documented the incident via video recording as evidence.
But the statement, was however silent on the custody of the cow, held back after the herder escaped with others upon sensing danger.
The police spokesperson said commendable proactive policing, successfully averted a potential farmers/herders conflict, which could have lead to bloodbath.
Odutola also said, “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”.
In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo has taken decisive action to prevent any escalation of conflict.
The CP thereafter directed the DPO to convene an emergency meeting with relevant Stakeholders, including Community leaders and representatives from both the farming and herding Communities.
CP Ogunlowo reassures residents of Ogun State that the police are committed to ensuring peace and adequate safety for all citizens.
The Police will continue to engage all parties involved to foster understanding and prevent conflicts, according to him.
He also said the Command remains vigilant and dedicated to upholding law and order, emphasizing the importance of collaborative efforts between farmers and herders to maintain peaceful coexistence in the community.
The Commissioner also enjoined members of the Community to report any suspicious activities or conflicts promptly to the police and sued for collaboration with the police towards securing environment for everyone.
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