Oyo Authorities Confiscate 20 Cows for Open Grazing Violations in Ibadan

Twenty cattle were recently impounded by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), working alongside security personnel, during two distinct enforcement actions conducted in Ibadan. These operations targeted alleged violations concerning open grazing, residential rearing of livestock, and the destruction of agricultural produce.

Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.), who chairs OYRLEA, disclosed on X on Thursday that the initial operation took place at dawn on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. This intervention in Batake Village, situated along the Ibadan-Eruwa Road, followed a formal complaint from Adewolu Farms. The farm had reported repeated incursions by cattle, leading to significant damage to its agricultural lands. Adewolu Farms is known for cultivating various crops, including cassava, maize, yam, and cashew.

OYRLEA stated that its team, comprising officials and security operatives, descended on the site where the livestock were housed. Upon sighting the enforcement personnel, the herders reportedly tried to relocate the animals; however, nine cows were successfully seized. A subsequent operation, also conducted at dawn on Thursday, October 1, in Idi-Iroko, Moniya, Ibadan, resulted in the impoundment of an additional 11 cows. This second seizure was attributed to alleged residential rearing and open grazing practices.

Cumulatively, these two interventions led to a total of 20 cattle being taken into custody. OYRLEA clarified that these enforcement drives are integral to its mandate to uphold the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019. The authority aims to safeguard citizens, agricultural producers, and legitimate economic pursuits throughout the state.

The agency reiterated its unwavering dedication to enforcing this legislation, encouraging residents and farmers alike to report any suspected infringements via established official channels. In a statement, the authority urged, “Residents and farmers are urged to report violations through appropriate channels,” while also reassuring the public that “all legitimate complaints will be attended to in accordance with the law.”

Justice Aderemi affirmed that the agency’s commitment to enforcing pertinent laws remains steadfast, serving the best interests of both residents and farmers. Furthermore, OYRLEA appealed to members of the public to collaborate with enforcement bodies by furnishing information regarding any activities suspected of contravening the state’s open grazing regulations.