Livestock Supply at Risk in Oyo as Cattle Breeders Take Stand Against Anti-Grazing Legislation

In a move that could disrupt the state’s food supply chain, a coalition of cattle breeders and dealers has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Oyo State government, threatening to halt all livestock sales and shut down cattle markets if their grievances over the state’s anti-open grazing law are not addressed.

The threat, which took effect on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, was made during a press parley in Ibadan by leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), the National Association of Cattle Dealers, and other associations.

The groups are protesting the enforcement of the Oyo State Anti-Open Rearing and Grazing Prohibition Law of 2019, which was recently brought under the purview of the state’s Rule of Law and Enforcement Authority. The breeders complain that the law is being implemented harshly and without due consultation. According to Alhaji Ibrahim Jiji, the Chairman of MACBAN in Oyo State, their members are facing what they describe as persecution.

“Even cattle not grazed in open fields are being seized by enforcement teams,” Jiji stated. He lamented that herders are being hit with heavy fines and prosecution, and that their attempts to purchase land for ranches have been largely unsuccessful. “We don’t have anywhere to go; we need to be accommodated. The government should have compassion on Fulani cattle breeders,” he appealed.

The coalition warned that if the state government fails to meet with them within the two-week deadline, they will impose an indefinite strike, which would see a complete halt in the sale of milk, cows, goats, and rams, as well as the closure of all related businesses and markets in the state.

While the Oyo State government has not yet issued a direct response to this ultimatum, recent statements from the administration have underscored its commitment to enforcing the anti-open grazing law. The government has previously stated that the law is a necessary measure to curb farmer-herder clashes and ensure peaceful coexistence.