The Oyo State Government has intensified enforcement against illegal livestock trading and open grazing resulting in the arrest of offenders and the impoundment of animals during a compliance operation in parts of Ibadan.
Officials of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority carried out coordinated enforcement raids in the Liberty area and the Elekuro High School axis along Akanran Road following repeated warnings against the sale of livestock in unauthorised locations.
According to the authorities, the operation came after weeks of sensitisation campaigns jointly organised by (OYRLEA) and the Association of Livestock Dealers and Breeders, which urged traders to conduct their activities only within approved government-designated livestock markets.
During the exercise, enforcement officers also intercepted livestock roaming freely around the Sawmill Onipepeye area describing the action as a violation of the state’s anti-open grazing regulations.
At the conclusion of the operation, seven rams and one goat were impounded by the enforcement team, while authorities initiated necessary procedures against individuals found to be in breach of existing laws.
The state government maintained that the exercise forms part of broader efforts to enforce compliance with the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law and strengthen the regulation of livestock activities across the state.
Officials noted that the enforcement drive is also aimed at improving environmental sanitation maintaining public order, reducing conflicts associated with uncontrolled livestock movement, and promoting safer and more organised livestock trading practices.
The government reiterated its commitment to implementing relevant laws and ensuring that livestock owners, traders and breeders operate within established legal frameworks.
Residents and livestock stakeholders were advised to comply with government directives and seek information on approved livestock trading locations through the Oyo State Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development to avoid penalties and sanctions.
Stakeholders observed that effective enforcement of livestock regulations could contribute to improved urban management, enhanced public safety and the sustainable development of the livestock sector within the state.
