October 25, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Ekiti State Government has issued a stern warning to herders operating in the state, cautioning them against destroying the state’s massive investments in agriculture by allowing their cattle to invade and damage farmlands.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Brig. General Ebenezer Ogundana, emphasized that the government will invoke the full weight of the law on any underage found herding or anyone herding at night.
Brig. General Ogundana made this declaration during a stakeholders’ meeting of the Ekiti State Farmers’/Herders’ Peace Committee held at Jibowu Hall, Government House, Ado Ekiti.
He explained that the Government’s efforts aim to bring permanent peace and understanding between farmers and pastoralists in the state.
The Herders/Farmers Peace Committee was inaugurated by Governor Biodun Oyebanji in 2023 to interface between herders and farmers.
The committee has implemented various policies and control measures to strengthen relationships, including the Anti-Grazing Law.
This law prohibits night grazing, underage herding, and grazing on farmlands, with defaulters facing legal consequences.
To ensure effective coordination and compliance at the local level, the committee has inaugurated 18 local government coordinators to serve as representatives.
These coordinators will work closely with traditional rulers, local government chairmen, and representatives of farmers and herders to promote interdependence and address issues of suspicion and trespass.
General Ogundana also announced that the government has established Farm Settlements across the state to address food shortages.
An Agro-Task Force comprising security agencies will provide protection for farmlands and farmers. Registration of herders, farmers, and host communities is ongoing to identify and prevent criminal activities.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, revealed Governor Oyebanji’s plan to invest heavily in agriculture in 2025.
This investment aims to boost food production and economic growth, emphasizing the need for security and protection of farmers and farmlands. Boluwade noted that peace is essential for development, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting agricultural investments.
