Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working with farmers, herders and other stakeholders to ensure peaceful coexistence and end recurring herder–farmer conflicts in the state.
The governor stated that his government remains open to dialogue and collective problem-solving to achieve peace, prosperity and harmonious living among all residents, stressing that Oyo State belongs to everyone, irrespective of ethnicity or belief.
Makinde made this known on Monday while declaring open a one-day stakeholders’ summit organised by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA). The summit, themed “Navigating the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law: Ensuring Adherence and Advancing Sustainable Livestock Management,” was held at Le Chateau, The Grand Place, Bodija, Ibadan.
According to the governor, his administration has demonstrated fairness and inclusiveness by supporting both farmers and pastoralists.
He cited government initiatives such as tractorisation subsidies and distribution of farm inputs to farmers, as well as cattle vaccination programmes for herders.
Makinde explained that the Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law was enacted not to witch-hunt any group or obstruct legitimate businesses, but to restore order, protect lives and property, and prevent avoidable conflicts.
“Oyo State belongs to all of us. Issues around open grazing and farmers–herders clashes must be resolved collectively through dialogue, respect for the law and shared responsibility,” the governor said.
He commended traditional rulers, farmers and Fulani residents for their roles in sustaining peace across the state, describing traditional institutions as pivotal to conflict resolution efforts.
Reassuring herders and pastoralists, Makinde said they had nothing to fear as long as they operated within the law. He recalled how his administration preserved certain Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) predominantly occupied by Fulani communities to promote inclusion and stability.
“We are together in this. If there are challenges, let us solve them together. Whatever we agree on collectively, my administration will implement for a win-win outcome,” he added, urging herders to comply with existing laws to create wealth and opportunities for all.
Earlier, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd), said the summit was convened to address the rising cases of herder–farmer clashes, which she described as a serious threat to lives, food security and social harmony in the state.
She condemned unlawful activities such as destruction of farmlands, encroachment, maiming and killings, noting that some criminals hide under the guise of herding to perpetrate crimes. Justice Aderemi emphasised that ranching remains the global best practice for livestock management and called for collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers and host communities.
She warned that the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law (2019, No. 17) is fully in force, adding that violators would face the full weight of the law. She also appreciated Governor Makinde for providing the framework needed for effective enforcement of the law.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo Lawal; former Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Senator Monsurat Sunmonu; Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, mni; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders.
