Ekiti State Bans Underage Herding and Night Grazing to Protect Agriculture Investments

The Ekiti State Government has enforced a new policy banning underage herding and night grazing, with a stern warning to herdsmen regarding the destruction of farms and agricultural investments in the state. This move follows recent escalations in conflicts between herders and farmers, threatening the significant investments made by the government in Ekiti’s agricultural sector. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Brigadier General Ebenezer Ogundana (Rtd.), emphasized that offenders would face strict legal consequences, and these measures aim to protect farms and promote peaceful coexistence.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting for the Ekiti State Farmers and Herders Peace Committee, held at the Government House in Ado Ekiti, Gen. Ogundana highlighted that the new measures, including strict monitoring and regulation, seek to prevent crop damage caused by wandering livestock. This initiative is part of a broader government strategy, launched by Governor Biodun Oyebanji, to end conflicts and encourage cooperation between herders and farmers, a necessity given Ekiti’s commitment to agricultural development.

Farmers and Herders Peace Committee: A Step Toward Lasting Coexistence

In 2023, Governor Oyebanji established the Farmers and Herders Peace Committee, chaired by Gen. Ogundana, to mediate and reduce the frequent conflicts between these two groups. The committee operates under the state’s Anti-Grazing Law, which restricts grazing to daylight hours, prohibits underage individuals from herding, and enforces penalties on those violating these rules. These guidelines are designed to eliminate tensions while ensuring that pastoralists and farmers can share the land peacefully.

Gen. Ogundana affirmed the state’s commitment to fair enforcement of the law, stating, “The Herders/Farmers Peace Committee is responsible for maintaining dialogue and introducing policies that strengthen relations between both groups.” He added that the committee has appointed 18 local government coordinators to oversee these efforts, enabling a localized approach to conflict resolution, and fostering direct communication within communities to ensure peaceful and productive coexistence.

Local Government and Traditional Leaders Called to Action

In a bid to improve communication between herders, farmers, and their host communities, Gen. Ogundana urged local government leaders and traditional rulers to establish forums for open dialogue. Through these discussions, parties can address mutual concerns, build trust, and reduce the suspicion and resentment often linked to trespassing and crop destruction. Traditional leaders and local government chairmen play a pivotal role, as they possess the influence to foster understanding and encourage compliance with state policies.

Ogundana also revealed plans to further strengthen this initiative by involving community stakeholders in regular discussions to educate and inform residents on the Anti-Grazing Law, thereby reducing conflict and promoting security for all parties. These forums aim to empower communities with the knowledge of legal boundaries and instill a sense of shared responsibility for Ekiti’s agricultural welfare.

Investment in Agriculture: A Growing Priority for Ekiti State

The Ekiti State Government has placed a high priority on agricultural development, with Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, announcing that the government intends to increase agricultural investments significantly by 2025. This year alone, over N2 billion has already been allocated toward agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting food security and supporting local farmers, underscoring the state’s dedication to revitalizing the sector.

To support these investments, the government has established farm settlements across the state and mobilized an Agro-Task Force composed of security agencies tasked with protecting these lands. Boluwade stressed the importance of safeguarding these investments, noting that without peace, growth in agriculture cannot be sustained. Additionally, the state has begun registering herders and farmers residing within these settlements to identify potential intruders and prevent criminal activity, ensuring that legitimate residents can farm and graze without fear of interference or harm.