Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has declared that anyone forcibly encroaching on land or property in the state will face strict legal consequences under the provisions of the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency, both established by his administration.
Makinde emphasized that land grabbers would be treated as criminals, signaling the end of the era of forceful land possession.
According to The PUNCH, he made this announcement on Wednesday during a one-day stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development at Omolayole Hall, International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.
The event, which sought to revive the core values of the Yoruba people—known as Omoluabi—had the governor represented by his deputy, Adebayo Lawal.
He expressed confidence that OYMASED, in partnership with other government bodies, would effectively address the state’s pressing socio-economic issues.
Makinde described the alarming rise in land encroachment as a trend the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency was created to address, warning that offenders would face prosecution by the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, led by retired Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi.
He also cautioned against indiscriminate cattle grazing, emphasizing that violators would be prosecuted.
Speaking at the event, Makinde stated, “We are not just focused on infrastructure but also on strengthening institutions. OYMASED is one such institution designed to address socio-economic challenges in Oyo State.
“We have also established the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency to curb the widespread phenomenon of land grabbing. People have the right to their land, and no one should forcibly occupy it. Such acts are now criminal under the anti-land grabbing law.”
He added, “Forceful occupation of land is no longer acceptable. In the past, conquering land was seen as a triumph, but today it is a crime. Anyone attempting this must be prepared to face the consequences.”
Makinde also highlighted the need to comply with environmental laws and respect public spaces, referencing recent incidents of cattle grazing in prohibited areas, including the state secretariat.
The Director-General of OYMASED underscored the importance of preserving Yoruba values like integrity, respect for elders, and hospitality, which he said were gradually fading.
Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, praised OYMASED’s initiatives and announced plans for public awareness campaigns in collaboration with the agency.
Justice Aderemi commended the governor’s commitment to restoring law and order through the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and OYMASED, stressing the need for value reorientation and adherence to regulations.
Other speakers, including Dr. Sybil Olufunmilayo Akinfenwa, Prof. Oludayo Tade, and Dr. (Mrs.) Olukemi Akinyemi, addressed issues ranging from crowd control and drug abuse to traffic management.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including former deputy governors, legal experts, traditional leaders, and representatives from various organizations.
