The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashid Adewolu Ladoja, has expressed displeasure over open cattle grazing within Ibadanland, describing the practice as illegal and prohibited in Oyo State.
He expressed his displeasure in a release issued and signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Olubadan, Chief Ayoade Solomon Olugbemiga, following a meeting with members of the Olubadan-in-Council and the Executive of Ijaye Farm Settlers Association at Olubadan Palace, Oke-Aremo, Ibadan, on Monday.
Oba Ladoja warned that all cattle rearers should desist from the practice to avoid court action, stressing that open cattle grazing is not only illegal but also prohibited not only in Ibadanland but also Oyo State in general.
“Anyone caught disobeying Oyo State law forbidding open cattle grazing will be arrested and prosecuted in the court of law”, Oba Ladoja cautioned.
The monarch vowed to act against Fulani herdsmen, condemning the killings, assaults, and destruction of farmlands that threaten the community’s livelihood.
“We will not fold our arms watching Fulani herdsmen killing farmers, their children, raping their wives, and destroying their farms, which are their means of livelihood.”
Oba Ladoja directed Ibadan Mogajis, Baales, and other traditional titleholders to maintain vigilance in their domains and ensure adequate security of life and property to avoid sanctions from the palace.
He urged residents to quickly inform law enforcement agencies whenever they notice the presence of Fulani herdsmen, kidnappers, or other criminal elements in their communities.
Earlier, Pastor David Olatunji, Chairman of Ijaye Farm Settlers Association, decried the rising attacks by Fulani herdsmen, which have resulted in killings, assaults on family members, and destruction of farms and produce.
He said that repeated reports to police stations and security posts had not led to arrests or prosecution. Pastor Olatunji appealed for the support and protection of the Olubadan and Oyo State Government to safeguard the farmers.
The meeting was attended by several prominent traditional chiefs, including the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Barr) Tajudeen Abimbola Ajibola; Otun Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr) Kolawole Adegbola; Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi; Osi Balogun, Oba Olubunmi Dada Isioye.
Others include: Ashipa Olubadan, Oba Salawudeen Amidu Ajibade; Ashipa Balogun, Oba Dauda Abiodun Azees; Ekerin Olubadan, Oba Muritala Adebayo Akande; and Ekerin Balogun, Oba Akeem Mobolaji Adewoyin.
