IBADAN, NIGERIA — The Oyo State Government has condemned an attack on officials of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) during an operation to enforce the state’s anti-open grazing regulations in Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area.
The incident occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, in the Ilua area of Okeho, where the enforcement team was carrying out an operation under the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulations Law, 2019.
According to a statement issued by the authority’s chairperson, retired Justice Aderonke Aderemi, suspected herders allegedly confronted members of the enforcement team and pointed firearms at them during the operation.
The first confrontation reportedly occurred at the team’s operational location in Ilua. Security personnel attached to the enforcement operation intervened to protect the officers and subsequently withdrew them from the immediate danger zone.
However, the situation reportedly escalated when the team encountered another attack around the Palace axis while proceeding along Iseyin Road into Okeho town.
The officers were forced to take cover, assess the security situation and adopt measures to protect themselves from further danger.
OYRLEA described the incident as a serious threat to the safety of law enforcement personnel and the effective implementation of existing laws in the state. The authority also expressed concern that attacks on officials carrying out lawful duties could undermine public order and peaceful coexistence.
The chairperson condemned the incident, describing it as unfortunate and unacceptable. She reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to enforcing the state’s laws while protecting the lives and property of residents.
The matter has been reported to the Nigeria Police Force, which is handling the investigation. The police are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.
The attack comes amid intensified enforcement of Oyo State’s restrictions on open grazing and unauthorised livestock rearing. The regulations are intended to address recurring disputes involving farmers and livestock owners, particularly complaints about cattle destroying cultivated farmland and threatening agricultural livelihoods.
OYRLEA has been conducting operations across different parts of the state following complaints and petitions from farmers. Previous enforcement activities have resulted in the impoundment of cattle allegedly involved in illegal grazing and damage to agricultural land.
The authority maintains that its mandate covers the enforcement of existing regulations relating to open grazing, environmental protection, road traffic management and other public-order matters.
Under the state’s 2019 grazing regulations, individuals found guilty of prohibited activities may face prescribed penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The law also provides for compensation where farmers suffer verified losses arising from illegal grazing.
The government has repeatedly urged livestock owners to comply with the regulations and use approved arrangements for animal rearing rather than allowing cattle to roam freely across farms, residential areas and public roads.
The latest incident highlights the security challenges that can accompany enforcement operations, particularly in communities where disputes over land use, farming activities and livestock management remain sensitive.
It also raises concerns about the safety of officials and security personnel deployed to implement state regulations. Authorities are expected to ensure that enforcement activities are conducted within the law while preventing confrontations that could threaten residents and public safety.
For communities in Kajola and neighbouring local government areas, the immediate concern will be preventing further violence and ensuring that the police investigation establishes accountability.
OYRLEA has reiterated its determination to continue carrying out its statutory responsibilities, while urging residents to respect the law and avoid actions capable of disrupting lawful government operations.
The government has also maintained that compliance with the grazing regulations is necessary to protect farmers, livestock owners and other residents, as well as promote peaceful coexistence across Oyo State.
