Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a stern warning to individuals engaging in land grabbing and unlawful cattle grazing within the state.
The Governor announced that anyone forcibly encroaching on land or property will now face the full force of the law, as stipulated under the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and the newly established Anti-Land Grabbing Agency.
Makinde, who was represented by his Deputy, Adebayo Lawal, made this pronouncement on Wednesday at a one-day stakeholders’ engagement hosted by the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED) at Omolayole Hall, University of Ibadan. The event was focused on reviving the core values of the Yoruba people, particularly the Omoluabi ethos, which has been diminishing in recent times.
“The era of forcefully taking possession of someone’s land is over,” Makinde declared, emphasising that land grabbers will now be treated as criminals under the new legislation. He also revealed that the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency has been set up to address the alarming increase in land encroachment incidents across the state.
In his speech, the Governor highlighted the ongoing socio-economic challenges within the state and expressed confidence that OYMASED, working alongside other government bodies, would help address these issues effectively. He also underscored the importance of not only infrastructure development but also institutional strengthening, with OYMASED playing a key role in socio-economic progress.
Makinde warned of severe consequences for those caught engaging in illegal cattle grazing, particularly in restricted areas such as government offices and public spaces. Offenders, he affirmed, would be prosecuted by the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, which is led by retired Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi.
The Governor stated, “Forceful occupation of land is no longer acceptable. In the past, conquering land was seen as a triumph, but today it is a crime. Anyone attempting this must be prepared to face the consequences.”
In addition to land issues, Makinde stressed the need for adherence to environmental laws and public space regulations, citing the recent cases of cattle grazing in inappropriate locations, including the state secretariat.
During the event, the Director-General of OYMASED spoke about the importance of re-establishing the traditional values of integrity, respect for elders, and hospitality within the Yoruba community. These values, he pointed out, have been gradually eroded and require urgent revival.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, commended OYMASED for its initiatives, revealing plans for public awareness campaigns to support the agency’s goals.
Justice Aderemi also praised the Governor’s commitment to restoring law and order in the state, particularly through the efforts of the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and OYMASED. She emphasised the importance of upholding societal values and ensuring that regulations are adhered to by all.
Notable dignitaries at the event included former deputy governors, legal officials, traditional leaders, and representatives of various organisations. The gathering also featured experts such as Dr. Sybil Olufunmilayo Akinfenwa, Prof. Oludayo Tade, and Dr. (Mrs) Olukemi Akinyemi, who discussed pressing issues ranging from crowd control to drug abuse and traffic management.
Governor Makinde’s administration remains committed to strengthening the legal and social frameworks necessary for the advancement of Oyo State, ensuring that all citizens respect the rule of law and the state’s values.
