The Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa 1, has issued a clear warning to herders: open grazing is illegal and won’t be tolerated in Ibadanland, the capital of Oyo State. This bold stance prioritises the safety and security of farmers, their families, and their livelihoods, reflecting the growing frustration among communities targeted by herders.
Olubadan Ladoja made the statement yesterday following a meeting with the Olubadan-in-Council and Ijaye Farm Settlers Association at Olubadan Palace, Ibadan.
Olubadan Ladoja’s firm words, “Any person caught disobeying the Oyo State law that forbids open cattle grazing will be arrested and prosecuted”, demonstrate his commitment to protecting Ibadanland’s residents. The traditional ruler’s concerns are valid, given the attacks on farmers, destruction of farmlands and assaults on families. Hear him further, “We will not fold our arms and watch herdsmen kill farmers, attack their children, assault their wives, and destroy their farms, which are their means of livelihood.”
Olubadan Ladoja called on traditional titleholders to stay alert in their domains and safeguard lives and property, warning that negligence could attract sanctions from the palace.
The Olubadan’s words are a clarifying call to action, leaving no room for ambiguity. His message to traditional titleholders is clear: stay vigilant, protect your people, and don’t let negligence slide. The palace will hold you accountable. By putting the onus on titleholders, he’s mobilising a collective effort to safeguard Ibadan’s communities and livelihoods. It’s a bold move that demands attention and action.
The Ijaye Farm Settlers Association echoes these concerns, with the Chairman David Olatunji, highlighting the dangers faced by members. The Association seeks rescue from the Olubadan and Oyo State Government, underscoring the need for urgent action.
This isn’t a new issue. In 2021, the Southwest Governors banned open grazing due to escalating tensions. Olubadan Ladoja’s stance sends a strong message: his communities won’t be intimidated or destroyed. The Olubadan’s warning serves notice to perpetrators—Ibadan will defend its people and land.
The Oyo State Government’s support is crucial in enforcing the ban on open grazing. Deploying security personnel to monitor and enforce the ban, providing alternative grazing areas for herders and supporting affected farmers with compensation or aid are practical steps they can immediately take.
Addressing the root causes of these conflicts requires a multifaceted approach. Promoting climate-resilient agriculture, encouraging dialogue between herders and farmers, investing in infrastructure like ranches and livestock markets and addressing land ownership issues can help reduce tensions. By tackling these underlying factors, we can work towards a more sustainable and peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders, I think.
Local governments should be adequately funded to exercise their autonomy, enabling them to effectively contribute to security within their domains – a crucial aspect of maintaining peace. Establishing local government indigenous associations could facilitate the implementation and monitoring of the Olubadan’s directives, ensuring compliance and community engagement.
The ball is now in the Oyo State Government’s court. Will it back the Olubadan’s stance and protect its people, or will inaction embolden herders? One thing is clear: Ibadanland and its residents stand united against open grazing and its destructive consequences.
Tunji Oladejo, mnipr, JP, writes from the University of Ibadan and is the Chairman of The Progressive Forum, Ibadan (TPFI) via oladejo65@gmail.com. 08077284442
