……..Order headers to vacate farm settlements
April 25, 2025
By Adedoja Adesoji
The Oyo State Government has ordered herders to vacate farm settlements in the state, citing the need to protect crops and enforce environmental protection laws.
The directive is part of the state’s efforts to ensure an orderly, safe, and clean environment, aligning with Governor Seyi Makinde’s vision.
Mrs. Aderemi, a representative of the Oyo State Rural Enterprise and Agri-Processing Economy Labour and Employment Authority (OYRLEA), stated that farm settlements are designated for crop farming and not for livestock grazing.
“It is illegal to graze cows, sheep, goats, or chickens on any farm settlement in Oyo State,” she emphasized.
Aderemi urged herders to comply with the directive, warning that whoever violates grazing or related laws will face the full weight of the law.
“The rule of law applies to all, regardless of tribe or affiliation,” she stressed.
OYRLEA, established by Governor Makinde in April 2024 and inaugurated in August 2024, is tasked with enforcing laws on environmental protection, road traffic, and open rearing and grazing.
The authority aims to ensure compliance with anti-open grazing, environmental, sanitation, and traffic laws.
To enforce compliance, OYRLEA has established mobile courts and tribunals to prosecute offenders.
Violators face fines or jail terms, and legal counsel is available for defence or bail applications.
Aderemi dismissed claims by individuals or groups that they are entitled to membership of the OYRLEA board, stating that the government has the sole authority to appoint board members.
She reaffirmed OYRLEA’s commitment to rigorous enforcement for the benefit of the state.
“We will not tolerate any form of lawlessness or disregard for the laws of the state,” Aderemi implied, emphasizing the authority’s determination to protect the state’s interests
