Oyo agency seizes 20 cows over open grazing, crop destruction

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, in partnership with security forces, confiscated 20 cows in two separate raids in Ibadan on charges of open grazing, residential rearing, and crop damage. Justice Aderonke Aderemi, Chairperson of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Agency (OYRLEA), announced the first operation on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at dawn in Batake Village along the Ibadan-Eruwa Road, following a complaint from Adewolu Farms.

The farm, which grows cassava, maize, yam, and cashew, accused the cattle of repeatedly invading and damaging its crops. Despite the herders' attempts to move the animals upon seeing the enforcement team, nine cows were successfully seized. The second operation took place at dawn on Thursday, October 1, in Idi-Iroko, Moniya, Ibadan, resulting in the arrest of another 11 cows for alleged residential rearing and open grazing.

The two raids brought the total number of impounded cattle to 20. OYRLEA cited its efforts in enforcing the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law of 2019, which aims to protect residents, farmers, and lawful economic activities. The agency emphasized its commitment to enforcing the law and appealed to residents and farmers to report suspected violations through the proper channels.

All legitimate complaints will be addressed in line with the law, the authority assured. OYRLEA urged the public to collaborate with enforcement agencies by providing information on activities suspected of violating the state's open grazing regulations.