News in brief:
– A ₦27.3 million cassava farm in Adao Village, Ogun, was allegedly set ablaze by suspected cattle herders.
– The police have launched an investigation, urging calm as efforts to prevent inter-group conflict continue.
The Ogun State Police Command has commenced an investigation into an arson case involving suspected cattle herders who allegedly set fire to a cassava farm valued at ₦27.3 million in Adao Village, Alabata, Abeokuta.
Police spokesperson CSP Omolola Odutola confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Friday, assuring the public that justice would be served.
According to the report, the farm owner, Mr Ogunbayo Adewale of Raka Village, visited his 35-acre cassava farmland on February 19, 2025, only to find it engulfed in flames. He also discovered cattle grazing on the farmland, with several cassava plants uprooted.
“The complainant reported that upon sighting him, the herders commanded the cattle to flee. However, he managed to apprehend one of the cows and presented it at the police station as evidence,” Odutola stated.
In response, the Divisional Police Officer of FUNAAB Harmony deployed community policing strategies to de-escalate tensions and prevent any potential tribal conflict.
Preliminary investigations have identified the owner of the seized cow, while further inquiries are ongoing. The police reassured the public of a fair and transparent investigation.
Odutola emphasised that the case has been transferred to the surveillance unit for further examination and legal action. She urged all parties to remain calm while the investigation unfolds, reiterating the command’s commitment to maintaining peace, preventing inter-group conflicts, and protecting the rights of all citizens.
