Tragedy struck in the Osara, Obantoko area of Abeokuta, located in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, on Saturday as no fewer than 32 cows were reportedly killed by thunder strike and lightning during a torrential downpour.
The incident, which occurred around 1:30 p.m. on June 21, was confirmed by both local authorities and the Ogun State Police Command.
Speaking with our newsmen on Sunday, the Baale of Osara community, Chief Wasiu Afolabi, said the Fulani herders responsible for the livestock alerted him around 2:00 p.m. on the day of the incident.
“I was at home on Saturday when the Fulani herders came to report that lightning had killed 32 of their cows,” Afolabi stated.
“I went to the site where the cows are usually kept before grazing and saw all the animals lying dead,” He added.
Chief Afolabi confirmed that the matter has been reported to the Aregbe Police Division and the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Dr. Afolashade Adeyemo.
He added that a meeting has been scheduled with the affected herders to determine the next steps and to ensure that the incident does not disrupt the peace of the community.
Confirming the development, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, in a WhatsApp message to PUNCH correspondent said: “The Command is well aware. The incident was reported to the DPO of Aregbe Division at about 13:30 hours on 21/06/2025.
“He led a team to the scene. 32 cows were struck dead when thunder and lightning occurred during a heavy downpour.”
The bizarre nature of the incident has stirred reactions across the community, with many residents expressing shock at the magnitude of the natural disaster.
Authorities have assured that proper measures will be taken to prevent health or security concerns arising from the mass death of the animals.