Oyo state,Nigeria–Cattle breeders in Oyo State have issued a two-week ultimatum to the state government, threatening to suspend the sale of livestock and related products in protest against the enforcement of the Anti-Open Grazing Law.
The ultimatum, which began on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, was announced during a media briefing held in Akinyele, Ibadan. Representatives from the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani, the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Processors and Marketers of Nigeria, and other allied groups expressed their dissatisfaction with the implementation of the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Prohibition Law (2019).
The groups warned that failure by the government to address their grievances within the two-week window would result in the indefinite closure of cattle markets, butcheries, and intermediary businesses across the state.
Chairman of MACBAN in Oyo State, Alhaji Ibrahim Jiji, described the enforcement of the law as overly aggressive, claiming that even cattle kept within private enclosures were being seized by officials. He lamented the imposition of fines and legal actions against herders, asserting that the breeders were not adequately consulted prior to the law’s implementation.
“We appeal to Governor Seyi Makinde to show compassion to Fulani cattle breeders,” Jiji said, highlighting their longstanding peaceful coexistence and contributions to the state’s economy and security. He also noted that acquiring land for ranching has proven difficult, as many locals are unwilling to sell to herders.
The breeders are demanding a government dialogue to establish more practical ranching solutions and to review enforcement protocols.
South-West Woman Leader of MACBAN, Hajia Aminat Idris, echoed the appeal, warning that disruptions to cattle operations would affect the entire value chain. “If there’s no peace for us cattle breeders, there will be no peace for others in the livestock sector,” she said.
Also speaking, South-West Coordinator of the National Association of Cattle Dealers, Olagoke Lateef Apata, emphasized that while the group is not opposed to the law, enforcement officers are allegedly exceeding their legal mandate.
Chairman of Miyetti Allah Kautal Hore Fulani, Alhaji Sanni Mohammed, urged the governor to intervene urgently. “This is our only means of livelihood. We need to be included in the government’s plans, or we will have no choice but to withdraw from the business entirely,” he stated.
The standoff raises concerns about potential supply disruptions and broader economic implications for the livestock sector in Oyo State.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ August 13,2025
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