How mediation diffused tension, prevented farmers-herders clashes in Ilupeju, Mowe

The Ogun State Police Command has successfully averted potential conflicts between farmers and herders in two separate incidents.

In Ilupeju, Abeokuta, a dispute arose on January 17 when Mr Okegbenro Julius, a member of the Favour Community Development Association (CDA), reported the destruction of his five-hectare rice plantation by herdsmen.

According to Julius, the herdsmen, accompanied by a large number of cows, invaded his farm at around 6:00 p.m., causing extensive damage to his crops. A security guard on the farm captured the incident on video, prompting the herdsmen to flee, leaving behind one cow.

Responding swiftly, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ogunlowo, directed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ilupeju to convene an emergency meeting with community leaders, farmers, and herders to address the issue.

Ogunlowo reassured residents of the police’s commitment to peace and safety, emphasising the importance of dialogue and collaboration to prevent future conflicts.

In a related development, the police also mediated a resolution in Mowe, where tensions had escalated over the alleged killing of six cows belonging to the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association.

The incident, reported on January 23 by Alhaji Muhammed, Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Agege Chapter, led to the arrest of a suspect, Baale Amu Village Chief Abiodun Ogunyemi.

To prevent further conflict, the DPO in Mowe facilitated a meeting between herders, farmers, and community leaders. Both parties agreed to reconcile, with villagers consenting to allocate designated grazing areas for herders. The Miyetti Allah leaders pledged to assess the land and provide feedback to the police.

Ogunlowo commended the stakeholders for their commitment to peace, urging continued dialogue and mutual respect to sustain harmony.

He reiterated the command’s dedication to maintaining law and order while calling on all parties to support efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future