Akeredolu Bans Open Grazing In Ondo…Issues 7-Day Ultimatum To Herdsmen To Vacate Forest Reserves

 

By DAPO FALADE

Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, on Monday, took a major step towards stemming rising waves of insecurity as he banned open grazing with cities and along major roads, including highways in the state.

He also issued a 7-day ultimatum, effective from today, to all herdsmen to vacate all forest reserves in the state and also banned night-grazing with immediate effect.

The governor said most farm destructions takes place at night, even as he outlawed under-aged grazing of cattle in any part of the state.

Governor Akeredolu, in a statement he personally signed, said the major steps were taken to address the root cause of kidnapping, in particular, and other nefarious activities detailed and documented in security reports, the press and debriefings from victims of kidnap cases in the state.

“These unfortunate incidents are traceable to the activities of some bad elements masquerading as herdsmen. These felons have turned our forest reserves into hideouts for keeping victims of kidnapping, negotiating for ransom and carrying out other criminal activities.

“As the Chief Law and Security Officer of the state, it is my constitutional obligation to do everything lawful to protect the lives and property of all residents of the state.

“In light of the foregoing, the following orders are hereby issued: All forest reserves in the state are to be vacated by herdsmen within the next seven days, with effect from today, Monday 18 January, 2021;

“Night-grazing is banned with immediate effect because most farm destruction takes place at night; Movement of cattle within cities and highways is prohibited; Under-aged grazing of cattle is outlawed,” the statement stated.

The governor however said that his administration will give a grace period of seven days for those who wish to carry on with their cattle-rearing business to register with appropriate authorities.

“Our resolution to guarantee safety of lives and property within the state shall remain utmost as security agencies have been directed to enforce the ban,” he added.