Cattle Herders Set Fire to N27m Cassava Farm in Ogun

The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into an arson attack allegedly carried out by cattle herders, who are accused of setting fire to a 35-acre cassava farm in Adao Village, near Alabata, Abeokuta.

Confirming the incident, CSP Omolola Odutola, spokesperson for the police command, stated that Mr. Ogunbayo Adewale of Raka Village reported the case at a police station on February 20, 2025. According to Adewale, he arrived at his farm on February 19 at 4:40 p.m., only to find it engulfed in flames, with herds of cattle grazing on the land. Several cassava plants had also been uprooted.

Upon spotting him, the herders reportedly commanded their cattle to flee, but Adewale captured one cow and took it to the police station as evidence.

In response, the Divisional Police Officer of FUNAAB Harmony quickly implemented community policing strategies to prevent potential conflict. Preliminary investigations have since led to the identification of the cow’s owner.

Adewale estimates the damage to his farm at N27.3 million. The police have now referred the case to the surveillance section for further investigation and legal action.

CSP Odutola assured the public that the culprits would be held accountable, urging all parties to remain calm as the investigation unfolds. She reaffirmed the police command’s commitment to justice, law enforcement, and the prevention of inter-group conflicts.