Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders through dialogue and strict adherence to the state's laws.
A Summit for Sustainable Solutions
On Monday, the governor declared open a one-day stakeholders' summit organized by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA). The event, held at Le Chateau The Grand Place in Bodija, Ibadan, was themed "Navigating the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law: Ensuring Adherence and Advancing Sustainable Livestock Management."
Makinde emphasized that Oyo State belongs to all residents, irrespective of ethnicity or beliefs, as it is part of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He stated that issues surrounding open grazing and farmer-herder conflicts must be resolved collectively.
Law for Order, Not Persecution
The governor clarified that the Oyo State Anti-Open Grazing and Rearing Law was enacted not to target any specific group or hinder legitimate business, but to restore order, protect citizens, and prevent violent conflicts that lead to loss of life and property destruction.
He reassured herders and pastoralists, saying, "Let me reassure our brothers who are herders and pastoralists that you don't have anything to be afraid of in Oyo State. The state belongs to all of us, and we are trying to solve a problem."
Makinde cited a personal example from his 2018/2019 campaign in Oriire Local Government, where he initially planned to scrap Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs). He changed his mind after Fulani community members explained that a particular LCDA was crucial for their representation and identity.
Call for Collaboration and Lawfulness
The governor called for unity in solving challenges, promising to implement stakeholder-agreed solutions for a win-win outcome. His direct appeal to herders was: "What I will say to herders is that, please, follow the law that is operating in Oyo State. There is enough for us to work together on to create wealth and opportunities for our people."
He also highlighted his administration's dual support systems, which include:
- Supporting farmers through tractorisation subsidies and farm input distribution.
- Supporting pastoralists through cattle vaccination initiatives.
OYRLEA Stresses Ranching as Global Standard
Earlier, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd), stated the summit aimed to address the incessant clashes threatening lives, food security, and social harmony. She condemned unlawful acts like farmland encroachment and attacks on farmers by criminals posing as herders.
Justice Aderemi emphasized that ranching is the global standard for livestock management and called for collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers, and communities to ensure compliance with the law. She warned that the Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law (2019 No17) is fully operational, and violators will face legal consequences.
The event was attended by notable figures including Deputy Governor Barr. Bayo Lawal, former Speaker Senator Monsurat Sunmonu, Head of Service Mrs Olubunmi Oni, traditional rulers, and religious leaders.
