The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has intensified efforts to enforce the state’s anti-open grazing regulations, impounding livestock found grazing illegally in Apata Olomo along the Ado-Awaye Road in Iseyin Local Government Area.
The enforcement action followed complaints from farmers in the community who alleged that roaming livestock had repeatedly invaded their farmlands, destroyed crops and caused significant economic losses.
Chairperson of the Authority, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.), disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, noting that the operation was carried out in response to petitions received from affected farmers.
According to her, the complaints highlighted growing concerns over the destruction of agricultural produce by livestock, a situation she said was threatening the livelihoods of farmers in the area.
“The operation was initiated following reports and petitions from farmers who alleged that livestock belonging to some herders had encroached on their farms, destroyed crops and negatively affected their means of livelihood,” Aderemi said.
She explained that an enforcement team led by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police, Francis Ojoomo, alongside the Chief of Staff to the Chairperson, Kofoworola Akinbode, and other security personnel, visited the community to verify the claims.
“Upon investigation, the team confirmed the allegations and discovered livestock openly grazing in contravention of the state’s livestock control and anti-open grazing regulations. Consequently, some of the animals were impounded in line with the provisions of the law,” she stated.
Aderemi reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to protecting farming communities and ensuring strict compliance with regulations governing livestock management across the state.
She stressed that the enforcement drive forms part of broader efforts by the Oyo State Government to safeguard agricultural investments, promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, and strengthen food security.
“The Authority remains committed to enforcing the law without fear or favour. We will continue to protect the rights and livelihoods of farmers while ensuring that livestock owners comply with established regulations,” she added.
Oyo State is among several states that have adopted measures to regulate open grazing and address recurring conflicts between farmers and herders. The government has consistently warned against illegal grazing practices and directed relevant agencies to enforce compliance with existing laws aimed at promoting sustainable livestock management and protecting agricultural communities.
The Authority urged livestock owners to embrace approved ranching and livestock management practices and comply fully with the state’s regulations to avoid sanctions.
