OYRLEA impounds 19 cows in Iseyin over illegal grazing

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has impounded 19 cows in Iseyin Local Government Area following a petition by a farmer over repeated destruction of farmlands by grazing cattle.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade.

According to the statement, OYRLEA’s enforcement team carried out an early morning anti-open grazing operation after receiving the petition, intercepting the herders and their cattle before they could leave the affected farms.

The Authority said the 19 cows were apprehended and taken into its custody in accordance with the provisions of the Oyo State anti-open grazing law. It added that efforts were ongoing to identify the owners of the cattle for appropriate legal action.

Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (Rtd.), said the operation formed part of the Authority’s ongoing efforts to protect farmers, safeguard food production, and ensure strict compliance with the laws of Oyo State.

She warned herders against grazing on farm settlements and cultivated lands, stressing that violators would face the full weight of the law.

Justice Aderemi also assured residents and farmers across the state of OYRLEA’s commitment to responding promptly to petitions. She urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of illegal grazing and other acts that threaten public peace and farmers’ livelihoods.

The statement added that OYRLEA would continue to enforce the law without fear or favour.

That way, it is clear that the information came from the Commissioner’s official statement, while the quotes remain attributed to the OYRLEA Chairperson.