The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority has impounded 10 cows for alleged open grazing and other environmental violations in the Arola area of Apete, Ibadan.
The enforcement agency disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Chairperson, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd.).
The operation was carried out in collaboration with security operatives following complaints from residents who alleged that cattle were being reared within the densely populated residential area.
The residents reportedly complained about open grazing, indiscriminate disposal of animal waste, noise and air pollution allegedly linked to the cattle-rearing activities.
The authority said its enforcement team visited the area in the early hours of Tuesday to investigate the complaints and found them to be valid.
It said eight cows were seized at the location after the team established that cattle were being kept in a residential environment and allowed to graze openly, contrary to the provisions of the Oyo State Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019.
The agency added that two other cows were later seized when the enforcement team encountered them tied down and grazing openly along the route while returning from the operation.
The statement read in part, “Eight cows were impounded at the location.
While returning from the operation, the team sighted additional cows tied down and grazing openly along the route. Two more were seized, bringing the total to ten.”
The authority stressed that the enforcement action was not directed at legitimate livestock owners but was aimed at ensuring compliance with the law and protecting residents from environmental, health and public safety risks.
OYRLEA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the 2019 Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law and urged members of the public to continue reporting suspected violations for prompt investigation and appropriate action.