Ondo Court Jails Herdsman For Violating Anti-Open Grazing Law, Destroying Farm Crops Worth N50M

An Akure Magistrates’ Court in Ondo State has sentenced a herdsman, identified as Dan-Bello, to 10 years imprisonment for violating Ondo State’s anti-open grazing law and destroying crops estimated at N50 million.

The landmark ruling underscores the enforcement of the Ondo State Anti-Open Grazing Law, enacted to curb the destruction of farmlands and reduce conflicts between herders and farmers.

The court found Dan-Bello guilty of allowing his cattle to roam freely, grazing on and destroying cultivated farmland, including maize, cassava, and vegetables.

Eyewitnesses and affected farmers testified during the proceedings, providing evidence of repeated damage caused by the herdsman’s cattle.

Despite previous warnings, Dan-Bello continued his actions, which led to extensive economic loss and growing tension in the farming community.

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The magistrate, while delivering judgment, stressed that the offense was a serious breach of public order and property rights. She added that the 10-year jail term, with no option of a fine, was necessary to serve as a deterrent to others who may flout the law.

This conviction is one of the most notable under the anti-open grazing law passed in 2021, reflecting the Ondo State Government’s commitment to protecting agriculture, food security, and peaceful coexistence.

Local farmers welcomed the ruling, saying it would help discourage unlawful herding practices and restore confidence in government efforts to support agrarian livelihoods. The court’s decision is expected to bolster similar enforcement efforts across Nigeria.