Authorities in Oyo State have stepped up enforcement of the state’s anti-open grazing law.
Ten cows were impounded during an operation in the Arola area of Apete, Ibadan.
The operation followed complaints from residents about cattle rearing in the neighbourhood.
The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority confirmed the action on Tuesday.
Residents Report Livestock Nuisance
Residents reportedly complained about cattle being kept in a densely populated area.
They also raised concerns over open grazing and the disposal of animal waste.
Noise and air pollution were among the other issues reported.
In response, OYRLEA deployed an enforcement team with security personnel to inspect the area.
Operation Leads to 10 Seizures
The team arrived in the early hours of Tuesday to investigate the complaints.
Officials reportedly found cattle being reared in a residential environment.
They also established that open grazing was taking place.
Eight cows were subsequently impounded at the location.
However, officials later encountered two more animals.
The two cows were reportedly tied down and grazing openly along the route as the enforcement team returned from the operation.
They were also seized.
The total number of impounded cows therefore rose to 10.
Officials Cite 2019 Law
The authority said the activities violated the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019.
Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.), chairperson of OYRLEA, said the enforcement was carried out within the state’s legal framework.
The authority stressed that the operation was not directed at legitimate livestock owners.
Rather, it said the objective was to ensure compliance with the law.
It also said the enforcement was intended to protect residents from possible environmental, health and public safety risks.
Oyo Warns Against Illegal Grazing
OYRLEA has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the state’s livestock regulations.
The authority also encouraged residents to report violations.
It said credible complaints would be investigated and acted upon where necessary.
The latest operation is part of continuing efforts to control livestock movement across Oyo State.
It also underscores the government’s position that cattle should not be allowed to roam freely in residential areas where such activities are prohibited.
