At least 32 cows were killed by a lightning strike during a heavy downpour on Saturday in Osara, a village in the Obantoko area of Abeokuta, Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The tragic incident occurred around 2pm and was confirmed by the village head, Chief Wasiu Afolabi, who spoke to our correspondent on Sunday.
According to him, Fulani herders in charge of the cattle had rushed to inform him after the lightning struck during the midday rainfall, which started around noon.
“I was at home when the herders came to report that lightning had struck and killed 32 cows. I followed them to the spot where the animals are usually kept before grazing. Sadly, they were all dead,” Afolabi narrated.
He added that the matter had been reported to the Aregbe Police Division as well as the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Dr. Afolashade Adeyemo.
“We’ve called a meeting with the herders to determine the next steps and ensure that this unfortunate incident does not disrupt the peace of the community,” he said.
Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, also confirmed the occurrence in a message sent to our correspondent.
“The Command is aware of the incident. It was reported to the DPO of Aregbe Division at about 1:30pm on June 21. He visited the scene with his team. Thirty-two cows were found dead after thunder and lightning struck during a heavy rain,” Ogunlowo stated.
