BY: FAGBIRE OLUWAROTIMI
The Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon. Dr. Lanre Oyegbola-Sodipo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting peace, security and sustainable livestock management through the implementation of the Abeokuta North Local Government Livestock Grazing Regulation Bye-Law.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ sensitisation meeting held at the Council Secretariat, inside Hon. Abeeb Ajayi Multi – purpose Hall, Akomoje, Abeokuta, Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo disclosed that the bye-law would take effect from 1st August, 2026, having successfully passed through all legislative processes and become law within the Local Government.
The sensitisation meeting attracted a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, security agencies, community leaders, farmers, Hausa/Fulani representatives, Ohanaeze Ndigbo members, religious leaders and other relevant groups. The gathering provided an opportunity for discussions on the objectives and implementation strategies of the new law.
According to the Chairman, the bye-law was introduced to address the challenges associated with open grazing, improve public safety, reduce conflicts between farmers and herders, and strengthen harmonious coexistence among residents irrespective of ethnic or cultural backgrounds.
Dr. Oyegbola-Sodipo stressed the need for all livestock owners and herders operating within the Local Government Area to register for proper identification. He explained that the registration process would assist security agencies in monitoring activities, improve accountability and support the proposed establishment of cattle ranches within the Council Area.
The Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, Hon. Hassan, described the farmers-herders issue as a critical national concern. He noted that the creation of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, underscores the importance of adopting sustainable livestock management practices and ending open grazing.
Representing the Fulani community, the Seriki Hausa/Fulani, Mr. Ibraheem Hassan Hassan, pledged the cooperation of herders with the Local Government. He acknowledged that while many Fulani residents have lived peacefully within the area for generations, efforts would be intensified to identify and discourage criminal elements while encouraging full participation in the registration exercise.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Council of Baales in Abeokuta North Local Government, High Chief Jelili Oyejide, expressed satisfaction with the implementation of the bye-law, noting that it would help address recurring disputes and promote lasting peace. He assured the Local Government of the support and cooperation of traditional leaders.
The representative of farmers, Mr. Asiwaju Jelili, welcomed the initiative, recalling several incidents of farmland invasion and destruction. He expressed optimism that the enforcement of the bye-law would provide adequate protection for farmers and their investments.
Similarly, the Chairman CDC’s in Abeokuta North, Chief Ahmed Olawale disclosed that Community Development Associations (CDAs) in Oke-Odo and Sabo had collectively agreed to prohibit cattle rearing within their communities and fully support the objectives of the new law.
The Chairman of Ohanaize Ndigbo, Abeokuta North Local Government, High Chief Chinedu Nwachor, commended the Local Government Chairman for taking a bold and proactive step towards ensuring peace and security. He urged herders and residents alike to cooperate with the authorities and embrace the implementation of the bye-law.
Security agencies also expressed their readiness to support the enforcement of the law. The Divisional Police Officer, Olorunda Division, CSP Owei .W. Sweet, stated that the Police were actively involved in the legislative process and would continue collaborating with other stakeholders to ensure compliance. He further revealed that a task force had been established in conjunction with traditional institutions to maintain peace and protect lives and property.
Traditional rulers at the meeting also endorsed the initiative. The Olu of Olorunda, His Royal Majesty Oba Joshua Olusegun Philips Ogunsola, described the regulation as timely and necessary, called for the support of all stakeholders. In the same vein, Oba Professor Saka Adelola Matemilola, Olowu of Owu Kingdom, represented by Chief Abiodun Lasile, urged herders to sensitise their members on the provisions of the new law.
The Olu of Ilawo, Oba Alexsanda Olusegun Magrigor, commended the leadership qualities of the Chairman and encouraged residents to support his administration’s vision for a more secure and prosperous Abeokuta North Local Government.
A major highlight of the event was the formal presentation of the bye-law to stakeholders by the Leader of the Legislative House, Rt. Hon. Ajani Erubami, who emphasised that the legislation was enacted in good faith for the collective benefit, peace and development of the Local Government Area.
In his vote of thanks, the Vice Chairman, Hon. Taiyelolu Egbeyemi, appreciated all stakeholders for their contributions, support and commitment towards the successful implementation of the bye-law and wished them safe journeys back to their destinations.
Dignitaries present at the occasion included, the Secretary to the Local Government, Engr. (Mrs.) Mutiat Agbaje; Ag Head of Local Government Administration, Sanitarian Olajumoke Ayoade; Dr. Princess Ojanronke Taiwo Ogunremi; Members of the Legislative Council; Supervisors; Special Advisers to the Chairman; the Divisional Police Officer, Lafenwa Division, CSP Kenneth Iyayi; traditional rulers; Baales; community leaders; religious leaders; representatives of various ethnic groups; farmers’ associations; herders’ and Mietiala representatives; and other security agencies.
In conclusion, the council boss re- emphasized that Abeokuta North Local Government remains committed to promoting peace, security and harmonious coexistence among all residents through effective policies and inclusive stakeholder engagement. The implementation of the Livestock Grazing Regulation Bye-Law represents a significant step towards safeguarding lives and property, protecting farmlands, enhancing community development and ensuring sustainable livestock management across the Local Government Area.
Report:
Fagbire Oluwarotimi
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