The Oyo State Government has reiterated that its anti-open grazing law remains firmly in force. The announcement was made on Thursday by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Olasunkanmi Olaleye, during an inter-ministerial press briefing in Ibadan, the state capital.
Olaleye disclosed that over the past two years, more than 58 cattle have been seized for violating the law, with numerous herdsmen charged in court for breaches.
The Commissioner warned that anyone found contravening the law would face appropriate sanctions.
The anti-open grazing bill was passed by the Oyo State House of Assembly in 2019 and subsequently signed into law by Governor Seyi Makinde, marking a significant step in the state’s efforts to curb conflicts between farmers and herders.
“Oyo is the safest for farmers. We have enough arable farmlands. We have the highest number of Amotekun personnel. The state is now safe for farmers who intend to go into commercial farming,” Olaleye stated.
To strengthen security, the state government has constructed a security post at the Ijaye Farm Settlement, a major agricultural area, ensuring no farmer has abandoned the settlement due to insecurity.
In a bid to further boost food production, the Commissioner revealed ongoing discussions with communities to acquire unused lands for agricultural purposes.
“We have imposed fines on many herdsmen for violating the law, and some have been charged to court. The anti-open grazing law is still in force,” he emphasised.
Oyo’s firm stance on the anti-open grazing policy reflects its commitment to safeguarding farmers’ rights and promoting sustainable agriculture within the state.
