Osun assembly passes bill to criminalise open grazing, movement of cattle by foot

The Osun house of assembly has passed the ‘Animal Grazing Regulation and Cattle Ranches Establishment Bill 2021’ after its third reading on Thursday.

Timothy Owoeye, speaker of the assembly, said the bill, after the governor’s assent, would regulate animal grazing and establishments of cattle ranches in the state.

He said the bill would also criminalise and prevent the killing of farmers, sexual molestation, environmental degradation, and pollution.

When the bill becomes law, the speaker said rearing of livestock will not be allowed in any part of the state except within permitted ranches.

The bill stipulates three-year imprisonment without the option of a fine for the contravention of the law.

It also stipulates the forfeiture of cattle or any livestock under the control of the offender to the state government.

“A minor who contravenes the provision of the law committed an offence, and the guardian or parent of the minor or owner of the livestock as the case may be, shall be vicariously liable upon conviction to a fine of N300,000 only,” the bill reads.

“Permits shall only be issued to a Nigerian who is authorised to conduct business under the bill.

“Preference shall be given in issuance of ranching permits to those within or near districts that are landowners interested in livestock business.

“Any herdsman or pastoralist who attacks or threatens to track any farmer, person or commuter whether or not injury is occasioned by the attack shall be guilty of an offence and liable upon conviction to a term of imprisonment of not less than one year without an option of fine.

“Conveyance of livestock on foot from one destination to another in the state is prohibited, except such movement is by rail, truck or pick-up wagon and is within 7am and 6pm.”