Tragic Lightning Strike Kills 32 Cows In Ogun Village.
A devastating thunderstorm swept through Osara village in Odeda Local Government Area of Ogun State on Saturday, 21 June 2025, claiming the lives of 32 cows in a bizarre natural incident. The tragic event, confirmed by the Ogun State Police Command, occurred around 4:40 p.m. during a torrential downpour accompanied by intense lightning, leaving local herders reeling from the loss.
According to police reports, two herders from the Osara community, jointly responsible for the livestock, reported the incident to the Aregbe Divisional Police Headquarters. The cows, owned by members of both the Hausa/Fulani and Yoruba communities, were found lifeless in a nearby forest, with no visible injuries, leading authorities to attribute the deaths to lightning strikes. The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, described the incident as a probable act of nature and urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation.
The financial impact is significant, with the loss of the 32 cows estimated at N100 million, a devastating blow to the affected cattle farmer and workers. The farmer has appealed for government assistance to recover from the substantial economic setback. The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, and the Chairman of Odeda Local Government, Afolashade Adeyemo, visited the site for an on-the-spot assessment, offering condolences to the herders. Authorities have advised against selling the deceased livestock in markets to prevent health risks.
The incident has sparked varied reactions online. Some social media users on X expressed shock, with one post humorously referencing local folklore, suggesting, “Ogun don settle himself,” alluding to the Yoruba deity of thunder. Others drew parallels between the event and mythological figures like Thor and Sango, noting the cultural significance of thunder in local narratives.
The Baale of Osara, Wasiu Afolabi, joined police in confirming the incident, which has left the community shaken. The Divisional Police Officer conducted a prompt assessment, noting no evidence of foul play, and the herders have not made any allegations against individuals or groups.
As Osara mourns the loss of valuable livestock, the incident underscores the unpredictable power of nature and its impact on rural livelihoods. The Ogun State government has assured herders that it is looking into the matter, with calls for support to help the affected farmers recover. For now, the community is urged to remain vigilant and report any further incidents to the authorities.