The Oyo State Government has reiterated that the anti-open grazing law remains in full effect, warning that violators will face legal consequences.
Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, made this known during an inter-ministerial press briefing held Thursday in Ibadan.
Olaleye disclosed that over the past two years, more than 58 cows had been confiscated while several herdsmen faced prosecution for breaching the law. He emphasized that the state government remains committed to enforcing the law, which was passed by the State House of Assembly in 2019 and signed by Governor Seyi Makinde.
“The anti-open grazing law is still in force. We have arrested over 58 cows and fined numerous herders. Some have been charged to court,” he said.
To bolster enforcement and safety, the commissioner said a security post has been set up at the Ijaye Farm Settlement, noting that no farmer has abandoned the area due to insecurity. He also stated that Oyo boasts the highest number of Amotekun operatives in the region, further enhancing the safety of farmlands.
Olaleye added that discussions are ongoing with several communities to make unused lands available for food production as part of efforts to enhance food security in the state.
