The Oyo State Government has taken decisive action against open grazing and cattle rearing in residential areas, impounding 20 cows in two separate operations within 24 hours in Ibadan. The operations, carried out by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) in collaboration with security operatives, occurred at Batake Village along the Ibadan-Eruwa Road and Idi-Iroko in the Moniya area of Ibadan.
According to a statement issued by OYRLEA, the first operation at Batake Village resulted in the impounding of nine cows on Wednesday. This followed a petition from Adewolu Farms, which alleged that cattle had repeatedly invaded its farmland, destroying crops such as cassava, maize, yam, and cashew. OYRLEA officials and security personnel arrived at the village at dawn and found cattle being kept at the location.
The herders attempted to move the herd away, but nine cows were successfully impounded. The operation was part of OYRLEA's enforcement of the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019. This law aims to regulate open grazing and protect residents, farmers, and lawful economic activities.
In a separate operation at Idi-Iroko, Moniya, 11 cows were impounded over alleged open grazing and rearing of cattle within a residential area. This brings the total number of cows impounded in the two operations to 20. OYRLEA's actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing regulations and addressing complaints from residents and farmers.
This is not the first time OYRLEA has taken action against open grazing and cattle rearing in Oyo State. In September, the authority impounded 10 cows in the Arola area of Apete, Ibadan, following a petition from residents who complained about cattle rearing in a densely populated neighborhood and open grazing.
In July, OYRLEA impounded 19 cows in Iseyin after a farmer complained that grazing cattle repeatedly destroyed farmlands. These operations demonstrate OYRLEA's ongoing efforts to enforce regulations and protect the rights of residents and farmers.
OYRLEA has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019, to protect residents, farmers, and lawful economic activities. The authority's actions aim to promote peaceful coexistence between herders and residents, while also protecting the environment and preventing damage to property.
Key points
- Oyo State Government impounds 20 cows in two separate operations over open grazing and crop destruction.
- Operations were carried out by Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) in collaboration with security operatives.
- Impounded cows were part of enforcement of Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019.
