Herder arraigned for open grazing in Ondo
A herder has been arraigned before a magistrate court in an Ondo State community for alleged open grazing and destruction of farm crops. The case followed complaints from local farmers who accused the herder of allowing his cattle to stray into cultivated farmlands, causing serious damage to crops and threatening their livelihoods.
According to details presented in court, the incident occurred when the cattle reportedly invaded several farms within the community and destroyed food crops that were close to harvest. The affected farmers raised alarm and reported the matter to local authorities, which led to the arrest of the suspect and his subsequent arraignment.
The prosecution told the court that the alleged actions of the herder violated the state’s anti-open grazing law and endangered the economic survival of the farmers involved. The court granted the herder bail with strict conditions and adjourned the case to a later date for further hearing.
Community leaders have welcomed the legal action, describing it as a step toward enforcing existing laws and discouraging repeated cases of farm destruction. They appealed to the government to strengthen mediation and security to prevent further clashes between farmers and herders.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by the Ondo State government to curb open grazing and protect farmlands. Authorities have warned that anyone found violating the law will face full legal consequences.
