The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, has expressed displeasure over the continued practice of open cattle grazing within Ibadanland, describing it as illegal, dangerous, and unacceptable.
The monarch conveyed his displeasure in a press statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, following a crucial meeting held on Monday at the Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
The meeting was attended by members of the Olubadan-in-Council and executive members of the Ijaye Farm Settlers Association.
Oba Ladoja unequivocally stated that open cattle grazing is prohibited, not only in Ibadanland but across Oyo State, in line with existing laws. He warned cattle rearers to desist from the practice immediately or face legal consequences.
“Open cattle grazing is not only illegal but also expressly forbidden in Ibadanland and Oyo State at large,” the Olubadan declared. “Anyone found flouting the law will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly.”
The paramount ruler lamented the persistent security challenges linked to open grazing, particularly the reported cases of killings, rape, kidnapping, and destruction of farmlands allegedly perpetrated by some herdsmen. He emphasised that such acts threaten the peace, security, and economic survival of farming communities.
“We will not fold our arms while farmers are being killed, their children murdered, their wives raped, and their farms destroyed – the very source of their livelihood,” Oba Ladoja stressed.