Lightning Kills 32 Cows in Ogun, Herdsman Left Devastated

A devastating lightning strike has left a herder in Ogun State reeling after all 32 of his cows were killed during a heavy downpour on Saturday, June 21, 2025.

The incident took place in Osara village, located in the Obantoko area of Odeda Local Government. The affected herdsman, Abdullahi Idris—a father of six and a key livestock provider in the region—said the cows were his only means of survival.

“It was a black Saturday,” Idris said in anguish. “This has never happened to me before. They were my only source of income.”

Estimated to be worth over ₦50 million, the herd represented not just a business but a lifeline that sustained his immediate family and over 20 other dependents.

The community leader, Baale Wasiu Afolabi, confirmed the tragic event, noting that he was alerted by Fulani herders who discovered the lifeless animals where they were normally stationed before heading out to graze.

Upon notification, the matter was reported to the Aregbe Police Division and Dr. Afolashade Adeyemo, Chairman of Odeda LGA. The Ogun State Police Commissioner, Lanre Ogunlowo, confirmed that a team led by the Divisional Police Officer inspected the scene and found no sign of foul play.

“All signs point to a natural event. The cows died instantly from the lightning,” police spokesperson Omolola Odutola stated.

Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, expressed sympathy and called for immediate government intervention.

“This is an unfortunate natural occurrence. Thirty-two full-grown cows were lost. The state must step in to help the affected family,” he urged.

However, as the tragedy continues to unfold, concerns have grown among residents regarding the delay in removing the decomposing carcasses. Locals have complained about the unbearable stench and potential health hazards.

Chairman Adeyemo responded, saying that 28 cows were counted and that plans were underway to bury them using lime and chemicals to prevent disease outbreaks. Despite this assurance, as of Tuesday evening, residents claimed no action had yet been taken.

Idris’s elder brother, Hassan Momodu, put the estimated financial loss closer to ₦100 million and called on the state to do more.

“The state and the police have shown concern, but this has left my brother completely empty-handed,” Momodu said.

The herding community in Odeda now faces not just grief but uncertainty, as they look to the government and kind-hearted Nigerians to help rebuild what was lost in a flash of thunder and light.