As part of sustained efforts to enforce environmental and public safety regulations, the Oyo State Government has intensified its clampdown on open grazing, leading to the seizure of five cows found being illegally herded along the busy Molete expressway in Ibadan.
The operation, carried out by security operatives, formed part of a wider enforcement exercise spearheaded by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA).
The exercise also targeted illegal street trading activities in key commercial areas, including Challenge, Gate, and Molete, which have long been identified as hotspots for environmental and traffic violations.
According eyewitness account, the cattle were intercepted while roaming freely on the expressway, creating potential hazards for motorists and pedestrians. Officials on duty promptly impounded the animals, reinforcing the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on open grazing, which it considers a threat to urban order and public safety.
Tensions briefly arose during the operation in the Challenge area, where some suspected miscreants reportedly attempted to obstruct enforcement activities and disrupt the process. However, the situation was swiftly brought under control as security personnel intervened decisively, dispersing the crowd and restoring calm without any reported injuries.
The enforcement team was led by the Chairman of the State Environmental Task Force, retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Francis Ojomo, alongside the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode, both of whom supervised the exercise to ensure compliance with established procedures.
In the course of the operation, four individuals were apprehended for allegedly obstructing law enforcement officers and breaching environmental laws. They have since been arraigned before a competent court to face the charges against them.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining order and safeguarding public spaces, the state government reiterated that the ban on open grazing and illegal street trading remains fully in effect. Authorities emphasized that enforcement actions will be sustained and carried out without exception, warning that violators will continue to face the full weight of the law.