The Oyo State Government has urged residents not to sell cows and rams on main roads during the upcoming Eid al-Kabir celebrations across all 33 local government areas.
Officials also reassured cattle rearers and farmers that the 2019 law banning open grazing is not targeted at any ethnic group.
The announcement came on Thursday, May 7 in a statement released after a stakeholders’ meeting in Ibadan on obeying the Anti Open Rearing and Grazing Law passed in 2019, according to News Digest.
“Applying the 2019 Anti Open Rearing and Grazing Law is not meant to intimidate or target any group in Oyo State,” the government said. “Every local government has approved markets where this trade can take place.”
Those at the summit agreed to follow the law, noting its benefits for public health and the economy. They also called for joint efforts with the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority to educate traders, farmers, and herders.
Speaking at the event, Aderonke Aderemi, head of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, said having a law on paper is not enough.
“The value of any law depends on how well people follow, apply, and enforce it in their communities,” she said.
Aderemi explained that the open grazing law was created to reduce clashes between farmers and herders, prevent damage to farmland, protect public safety, and stop disruptions to people’s livelihoods.
“The law sets out clear rules to keep order, safeguard investments, and encourage peaceful living,” she added.
She stressed that a law ignored cannot serve its purpose, and following this regulation is necessary to keep peace, security, and growth in the state.
“This meeting was held to review how well the law is being followed: what is working, where the problems are, and what changes are needed to improve compliance,” she said.
Aderemi noted that enforcement alone will not ensure people obey the law. Real compliance, she said, comes from public awareness, cooperation, and commitment from government, security forces, community leaders, farmers, and herders.
“We will also be firm. Breaking the law weakens the rule of law, and that will not be allowed. Our approach will be balanced—strict when needed, but inclusive and fair in how we engage people,” she stated.
The government reminded residents that approved markets exist in every local government for the sale of livestock.
It warned that traders caught selling on roads will face penalties under the law. Animals found with offenders will be seized, and owners will pay fines based on the violation.