Connect with us

Analysis

Archival Records: High Court Ruling on Open Cattle Grazing (1969)

Published

on

The longstanding conflict between pastoral cattle herders and farmers is not a new phenomenon.

However, many Nigerians, including state actors, are unaware of a pivotal court ruling on this issue.

In 1969, the High Court delivered a landmark judgment that addressed the disputes between farmers and cattle herders.

In the case of Suit No. AB/26/66, heard at the Abeokuta Division of the High Court on April 17, 1969, Hon. Justice Adewale Thompson ruled:

“I reject the defendants’ argument that a custom exists requiring farmers to fence their farms while cattle owners allow their cattle to roam freely and cause damage. Such a custom, if it exists, is unreasonable and repugnant to natural justice, equity, and good conscience, and therefore unenforceable… I ban open grazing, as it is detrimental to peace and tranquility. Cattle owners must fence or ranch their animals to ensure peace in these communities.”

This ruling is settled law, as the defendants did not appeal the decision. Consequently, open grazing on someone’s property within the Federal Republic of Nigeria is a violation of federal law.

The case spanned three years, from 1966 to 1969.


For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest from DDM TV

Latest Updates

INNOSON VEHICLE MANUFACTURING

Russian jets hit in Ukraine’s bold nihttime operations

Peter Obi’s financial legacy: ₦36 billion, $150 million left in Nigerian banks, debt-free

FG to unveil major railway expansion connecting multiple Nigerian cities : NRC MD

400% increase in air defenses needed to counter Russian threats, says NATO chief

How Gowon Remembers the Nigerian Civil War

US. and China begin trade talks in London after phone call between Trump and Xi

How seven Nigerian pilgrims died during 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia

Why Kemi Badenoch thinks migrants should wait 10 years for UK citizenship

Israeli forces seize Gaza-bound aid boat, detain activists on board

Iran threatens to expose Israel’s nuclear secrets, as tensions escalate

Subscribe to DDM Newsletter for Latest News

Get Notifications from DDM News Yes please No thanks