The Chairperson, Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Agency (OYRLEA), Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.). has ordered the herders to vacate all farm settlements in the state, pointing out that the farm settlements are mainly for crop farming purposes.
Aderemi, who noted that herders caught using his/her animals to graze in the farm settlements would be prosecuted added that it is illegal to graze cows, sheep, goats, and even chickens on any farm settlements in the state
Stressing that the state government has reiterated its unwavering commitment to upholding the Rule of Law across the state, she noted that all residents, irrespective of tribe or affiliation, must comply with the established regulations.
She also said that the Authority was mandated to enforce existing laws related to environmental protection, road traffic management, and the prohibition of open grazing and rearing in Oyo State.
Aderemi clarified that these laws are not new but have been in existence within the legal frameworks, stressing that the Authority has been tasked to enforce an orderly, safe, and clean state in line with Governor Makinde’s vision.
She described the Authority as the “new sheriff in town,” with the mission to crack down on violators of anti-open grazing laws, environmental regulations and traffic management laws, among others.
She maintained that the state government, has the prerogative to appoint whosoever it wishes as Board Members in any of her Laws, adding that no individual or association has any right or entitlement regarding the constitution of the Board.
The Chairperson said for every arrest and apprehension, the Mobile Courts and Tribunals are strategically positioned to prosecute offenders, emphasising that counsels are available to defend or apply for bail as the case may be, otherwise, a jail term or option of fines awaits such offenders or lawbreakers.
She, therefore, urged the citizenry to uphold the Rule of Law in the State to avoid being sanctioned.