Oyo State Issues Warning Against Vendors Selling Livestock on Busy Highways During Eid-el-Kabir Celebrations

Oyo State Government issued a warning to residents on Thursday, advising against the practice of selling cows and rams on major roads during the upcoming Eid al-Kabir festival, which will be observed across the state's 33 Local Government Areas.

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This directive was part of a communique issued at the Stakeholders Summit on Adherence to Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Law of 2019, held in Ibadan, the state capital, where the government also sought to reassure herders and farmers about the implementation of the 2019 Anti Open Rearing and Grazing Law.

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The government clarified that the law is not intended to target or oppress any particular ethnic group, and that designated markets have been established in all local governments for the sale of livestock.

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Stakeholders at the summit agreed to ensure strict compliance with the law, citing its benefits for public health and the economy, and called for collaboration with the state Rule of Law Enforcement Authority to raise awareness among those affected.

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Justice Aderonke Aderemi, Chairperson of the OYRLEA, emphasized the importance of compliance with laws, noting that the true test of a law's effectiveness lies in its implementation and enforcement.

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Aderemi explained that the Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law was enacted to address conflicts between farmers and herders, as well as threats to public safety and disruptions to livelihoods, and that it provides a framework for promoting peaceful coexistence.

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The chairperson stressed that a law that is not adhered to is essentially ineffective, and that compliance is essential for maintaining peace, security, and development in the state.

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The summit was convened to assess the current state of compliance with the law, identify areas for improvement, and determine the best course of action to strengthen adherence.

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Aderemi acknowledged that enforcement alone is not sufficient to guarantee compliance, and that a collaborative approach involving all stakeholders is necessary to ensure the law's effectiveness.

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The chairperson warned that non-compliance would not be tolerated, and that a balanced approach is needed, combining firm enforcement with inclusive engagement and fair processes.

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Designated markets have been established in all local government areas for the sale of livestock, and traders who violate the directive will face severe penalties, including confiscation of their animals and fines.

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Aderemi cautioned market vendors against turning major roads into makeshift markets for cows and rams during the upcoming Eid al-Kabir festival.

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Musbau Babatunde, Secretary to the State Government, urged stakeholders to focus on the law's enforcement, rather than just its provisions, in order to determine the best way forward.

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Olasunkanmi Olaleye, the state Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, called on residents to abide by the law, which he believes is the key to resolving conflicts between farmers and herders.

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Representing the commissioner, Dr. Bukola Akinloye, encouraged farmers to adopt ranching practices, noting that livestock production is a business that should not disrupt other activities in the state.

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Tunji Thomas, the state Director of Civil Litigation, emphasized that the rule of law is the foundation of democracy, and that conflicts can be avoided by following the law.

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The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, security agency representatives, and members of the farming and herding communities.

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Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Eid al-Adha or the "Festival of Sacrifice," is a significant Islamic celebration that commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's devotion to Allah, and is observed as a public holiday in Nigeria.