Ondo state governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu has ordered herdsmen to leave all Forest Reserves in the state within seven days.
The government, who said the decision was taken to address the root cause of kidnapping, in particular, and other nefarious activities, also banned night-grazing.
“Today we have taken major steps at addressing the root cause of kidnapping, in particular, and other nefarious activities detailed and documented in security reports, the press and debriefings from victims of kidnap cases in Ondo State.
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“These unfortunate incidents are traceable to the activities of some bad elements masquerading as herdsmen. These felons have turned our forest reserves into hideouts for keeping victims of kidnapping, negotiating for ransom and carrying out other criminal activities,” he said.
The governor said as the Chief Law and Security Officer of the State, it is his constitutional obligation to do everything lawful to protect the lives and property of all residents of the State
“All Forest Reserves in the State are to be vacated by herdsmen within the next 7 days with effect from today, Monday 18th January, 2021.
“Night-grazing is banned with immediate effect because most farm destruction takes place at night. Movement of cattle within cities and highways is prohibited. Under-aged grazing of cattle is outlawed,” he added.
Today we have taken major steps at addressing the root cause of kidnapping, in particular, and other nefarious activities detailed and documented in security reports, the press and debriefings from victims of kidnap cases in Ondo State.
— Arakunrin Akeredolu (@RotimiAkeredolu) January 18, 2021
He said the resolution to guarantee safety of lives and property within the State shall remain utmost as security agencies have been directed to enforce the ban.
“In its usual magnanimity, our administration will give a grace period of seven days for those who wish to carry on with their cattle-rearing business to register with appropriate authorities,” the governor noted.
The state has witnessed an upsurge in crimes, especially kidnapping and banditry in recent months.
