The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has impounded a total of 20 cows during two early morning operations in Ibadan, citing violations of the state's open grazing law. The enforcement actions, conducted on consecutive days, underscore the authority's commitment to implementing the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019.
First Operation at Batake Village
The first operation took place at Batake Village along the Ibadan-Eruwa Road at dawn on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. This action followed a petition filed by Adewolu Farms, which reported repeated cattle invasions that had damaged its farmland. The farm, which cultivates cassava, maize, yam, and cashew, had suffered significant losses due to the incursions.
OYRLEA officials, working alongside security operatives, moved into the area where the cattle were being held. When the team arrived, the herders attempted to drive the herd away, but nine cows were seized before they could escape. The swift operation prevented further evasion by the herders, ensuring that the cattle were brought under the authority's control.
Second Operation at Idi-Iroko, Moniya
Less than 24 hours later, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, OYRLEA conducted a follow-up operation at Idi-Iroko in the Moniya area of Ibadan. In this second operation, officials impounded 11 more cows over alleged residential rearing and open grazing in that community. The two operations together brought the total number of cattle seized to 20.
The OYRLEA Chairperson, Honourable Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), signed a statement on October 1, 2026, reaffirming the authority's commitment to enforcing the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019. The law is designed to protect residents, farmers, and lawful economic activities across the state.
Enforcement and Public Response
The authority called on residents and farmers to report any violations through the proper channels, assuring the public that all genuine complaints would be handled in line with the law. This move is part of broader efforts to regulate cattle rearing practices in Oyo State, aiming to reduce conflicts between herders and farmers.
The impoundment of 20 cows across the two operations signals a firm stance by OYRLEA in addressing illegal open grazing, which has been a source of tension in agricultural communities. The authority's actions are expected to serve as a deterrent to herders who flout the state's grazing regulations, potentially leading to more compliant practices in the future.
