Lightning Strike Kills 32 Cows in Ogun

A thunderstorm accompanied by intense lightning claimed the lives of 32 cows on Saturday in Osara Village, part of the Obantoko community in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State.

The incident occurred around 3:00 p.m. during a heavy downpour, leaving Fulani herders devastated as the livestock perished under unexplained circumstances.

Prime9jaOnline gathered that the cows were in their shelter, awaiting their routine evening grazing, when the lightning struck.

The herders promptly reported the incident to a local leader, Baale Wasiu Afolabi, who confirmed the development.

“The Fulani herders approached me to report that 32 of their cows were killed by lightning. I followed them to the scene and saw the lifeless animals. We immediately notified the Aregbe Police Division and the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Dr. Afolashade Adeyemo,” Baale Afolabi stated.

The Ogun State Police Command also confirmed the incident, describing it as a natural disaster. In a statement on Sunday, Police Public Relations Officer Omolola Odutola said two herders had reported the case at the Aregbe Divisional Headquarters.

“The herders, who jointly own the livestock, suspected the deaths were caused by a thunderstorm with intense lightning. The incident happened in a nearby forest during Saturday’s rainfall,” the police spokesperson said.

She added that preliminary inspection revealed no signs of foul play or external injuries on the animals, and the total value of the livestock could not yet be determined.

“The cattle were found lying in various positions across the forest. The owners did not suspect any foul play and have made no accusations,” Odutola noted.

In response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, called for calm and urged the public to view the tragedy as a natural occurrence.