Oyo State cracks down on street trading, open grazing

The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has commenced a coordinated crackdown on street trading, open grazing, and other environmental and sanitation infractions across the state as part of renewed efforts to restore law, order, and public safety in urban and semi-urban areas.

The enforcement operation, which took place on Tuesday in Ibadan, was led by the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd.), in collaboration with the Chairman of the State Environmental Task Force, DCP Francis Ojomo (rtd.).

The exercise marks a shift from previous sensitization campaigns to firm enforcement, with violators now facing prosecution under the state’s extant laws.

“We began intensive sensitization against street trading in January with a flag-off at Bodija Market. After months of sustained awareness, we are now moving to the enforcement stage to ensure compliance,” said Hon. Justice Aderemi.

The enforcement team targeted street traders at Bodija Market, where unauthorized stalls, mobile counters, and wares displayed along roadsides were removed.

The authorities emphasized that street trading poses significant risks to both traders and commuters, obstructing traffic flow and creating sanitation challenges.

Justice Aderemi reiterated that OYRLEA remains committed to upholding environmental and public safety regulations, warning that defaulters will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

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In a separate operation triggered by residents’ petitions from Unique Estate in Oluyole, Ibadan, the enforcement team impounded three rams and one cow found grazing in prohibited areas. The livestock owners were given a seven-day ultimatum to claim the animals or face forfeiture and associated fines.

“Open grazing is no longer acceptable in Oyo State. The law is clear, and we will not allow a return to practices that endanger lives, property, and environmental sustainability,” Justice Aderemi emphasized.

The enforcement campaign also extended to the Abidiodan community in Lagelu Local Government Area, where roadside shanties—allegedly used as criminal hideouts—were issued a 7-day ultimatum for removal. The structures were found to pose security threats and contribute to illegal activities within the area.

The multi-agency operation was supported by personnel from Operation Burst, Amotekun Corps, the Environmental Task Force, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the state government, Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, reiterated Oyo State’s unwavering commitment to enforcing its laws for the wellbeing of citizens.

“This is a government that listens, engages, and acts. After months of dialogue and education, we are now ensuring our rules are upheld for the benefit of all,” the Commissioner stated in an e-signed release.

The enforcement drive is expected to continue across other major cities and communities in Oyo State as the government moves to entrench law and order, improve urban sanitation, and secure lives and property.