Oyo evicts herders as farm invasion crisis grows

DDM News

The Oyo State Government has ordered all herders to vacate farm settlements across the state immediately.

The directive was announced over the weekend by Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), Chairperson of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA).

Justice Aderemi made the statement during a briefing in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.

She emphasized that the government’s decision stems from a strong commitment to enforcing the rule of law across all sectors of the state.

According to her, the farm settlements were established strictly for crop farming and not for the grazing of animals.

Justice Aderemi stressed that it is illegal to rear cows, goats, sheep, or even chickens on any farm settlement within Oyo State.

She further explained that the existing laws on environmental protection, road traffic, and the prohibition of open grazing are already part of the state’s legal system.

The chairperson clarified that the current directive is not the introduction of a new law but an enforcement of regulations already in place.

Justice Aderemi said that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is determined to maintain an orderly, safe, and clean environment for all residents.

She noted that OYRLEA has been empowered to ensure compliance without fear or favor.

To ensure strict enforcement, mobile courts and tribunals have been strategically positioned across various zones of the state.

Justice Aderemi disclosed that any violators apprehended would be prosecuted promptly.

She added that legal counsel would be available for defendants, allowing them to defend themselves or apply for bail.

However, she warned that defaulters could face a jail term or pay heavy fines if found guilty by the courts.

The chairperson urged all citizens, irrespective of tribe or affiliation, to obey the laws to avoid sanctions.

Justice Aderemi maintained that the enforcement drive is aimed at fostering peace, orderliness, and environmental protection.

She reassured the public that no group would be unfairly targeted during the operation.

Residents of Oyo State were called upon to support the government’s efforts in ensuring a lawful society.

The problem of open grazing has been a source of major conflict across many states in Nigeria.

Farmers and herders often clash, leading to violence, loss of farmland, and sometimes fatalities.

To address the growing tensions, southern Nigerian states have enacted anti-open grazing laws in recent years.

Oyo State, under Governor Makinde’s leadership, was among the states that passed legislation prohibiting open grazing.

The laws seek to protect farmlands, encourage modern ranching methods, and reduce insecurity.

The establishment of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority marked a significant move toward implementing these laws.

OYRLEA is tasked with ensuring that environmental laws, traffic regulations, and anti-grazing rules are fully enforced.

The decision to clear herders from farm settlements reflects the state’s determination to preserve the original purpose of the settlements.

These settlements were historically designed to boost agricultural productivity and food security.

Illegal grazing, according to experts, undermines farming efforts and exposes farmers to economic losses.

Governor Makinde has consistently advocated for agricultural development as a means to grow the state’s economy.

By prioritizing law enforcement, his government aims to create a more peaceful and prosperous environment for all residents.

The government’s approach also aligns with broader efforts across Nigeria to modernize agricultural practices.

Justice Aderemi’s statements underscore a firm resolve to sustain these reforms and ensure that the law is respected across the board.

The government has assured the public that lawful measures will be taken to remove illegal herders from farm settlements without resorting to violence.

This latest action sends a clear message that Oyo State is serious about enforcing its laws and safeguarding the interests of legitimate farmers.

The administration’s focus remains on creating a peaceful, organized, and economically viable state for present and future generations.

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