The Ekiti State Government has recently taken significant steps to bolster food production by imposing a ban on underage herding and night grazing throughout the state. This directive was announced by Brig Gen Ebenezer Ogundana (retd), the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Ekiti State Farmers/Herders Peace Committee. The objective of this initiative is to safeguard agricultural investments and ensure a sustainable coexistence between farmers and herders. Ogundana emphasized the need for mutual understanding and respect for the land, as unauthorized grazing not only hampers agricultural yields but also threatens the existing peaceful dynamics within the community.
The security adviser reiterated the legal implications of these new restrictions, referring specifically to the state’s Anti-Grazing Law. This legislation has been designed to prohibit nighttime grazing, prevent children from herding, and restrict access to farmlands. Ogundana made it clear that offenders would be subject to legal action, indicating the firm stance the government intends to take against violations. This measure highlights a proactive approach to maintaining law and order within the agricultural sector and showcases the administration’s commitment to upholding regulations that protect farmers’ rights and livelihoods.
The overarching goal of these policies is to quell the historical tensions between farmers and herders, which have often resulted in conflict. Ogundana pointed out that the Herders/Farmers Peace Committee was created by Governor Biodun Oyebanji in 2023 to facilitate dialogue and foster collaboration between both parties. He called upon local leaders—such as traditional rulers, local government officials, and stakeholders from both farming and herding communities—to engage in discussions and develop solutions that encourage interdependence and promote peace. These communal initiatives aim to tackle issues relating to mistrust and trespassing, and they underscore the necessity of adhering to the state’s anti-grazing regulations.
The state’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Ebenezer Boluwade, reinforced the government’s commitment to agriculture by announcing plans for a significant increase in investment by 2025. He underscored that an investment of over N2 billion had already been made in the current year alone, which is aimed at protecting farmers and their lands from potential disturbances caused by herders. Boluwade’s remarks highlight the government’s proactive efforts to create a conducive environment for agricultural growth, thereby ensuring that farmers can thrive without the disruption of undue conflicts.
Adeniran Akinwale, the state Commissioner of Police, expressed support for these initiatives on behalf of the security forces, praising the government’s efforts to achieve peace and stability. He urged traditional leaders to take a proactive role in community security by forming vigilante groups to protect their territories. This call to action reflects the necessity for community-based security arrangements that can provide immediate and localized responses to potential threats, thus complementing the broader governmental efforts in maintaining law and order.
The meeting concluded with a strong endorsement from Ekiti State’s traditional leaders, represented by Oba Gabriel Adejuwon, who expressed confidence in the government’s dedication to ensuring security and peace in the state. Their support is crucial for mobilizing communities toward embracing these new regulations and fostering trust among farmers and herders alike. This collaborative approach among farmers, herders, and authorities is essential for addressing historical grievances and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, ultimately leading to enhanced food security and agricultural productivity in Ekiti.
