A mysterious natural disaster struck Osara in the Obantoko area of Abeokuta, Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State, where 32 cows were killed by lightning during a torrential downpour on Saturday.
The tragic incident, which occurred around 12 noon on June 21, 2025, was confirmed by the Baale (community leader) of Osara, Chief Wasiu Afolabi. Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Afolabi said the Fulani herders managing the cows alerted him to the bizarre event around 2 p.m.
“I was at home on Saturday when the Fulani herders at about 2 pm came to report that lightning had killed 32 of their cows,” Afolabi recounted. “I got to their place, where they usually keep these cows before they are taken out for grazing and saw these dead cows.”
He added that the matter had been promptly reported to the Aregbe Police Division and the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Dr. Afolashade Adeyemo, among other relevant authorities.
“We have equally scheduled a meeting for this morning with the Fulani to know what to do next and also ensure that the incident does not affect the peace of the community,” Afolabi stated.
Confirming the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, said the command was aware and had taken immediate action.
In a WhatsApp message to journalists, Ogunlowo noted, “The Command is well aware. The incident was reported to DPO Aregbe Division at about 13:30 hours on 21/06/2025. He led a team to the scene. Thirty-two cows were struck dead when thunder and lightning occurred during a heavy downpour of rain.”
The rare incident has left residents in shock, raising concerns among local herders and farmers in the region. While no human casualty was recorded, the economic impact on the affected herders is expected to be significant.
