“These unfortunate incidents are traceable to the activities of some bad elements masquerading as herdsmen,” Akeredolu said.

“These felons have turned our forest reserves into hideouts for keeping victims of kidnapping, negotiating for ransom, and carrying out other criminal activities.”

The Governor also banned night-grazing with immediate effect “because most farm destruction takes place at night.”

“Movement of cattle within cities and highways is prohibited,” he added. “Under-aged grazing of cattle is outlawed.

“Our resolution to guarantee safety of lives and property within the State shall remain utmost as security agencies have been directed to enforce the ban.”

In November, bandits shots a prominent traditional ruler, the Olufon of Ifon, Oba Israel Adeusi.

Later that month, unidentified gunmen abducted the wife of the Chief of Staff to Governor Akeredolu.

Earlier in January, gunmen abducted a couple and two others in Uso community, in Owo Local Government Area of the state.

Days later, gunmen kidnapped a traveller along Ise/Isua – Akoko Road.