The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority has issued a formal condemnation following a violent encounter with suspected herders in the Ilua area of Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area. According to Punch, the confrontation took place on Friday at roughly 6:30 am. The authority confirmed that its officers were conducting a lawful operation to enforce the Open Rearing and Grazing Regulations Law of 2019 when the incident occurred.
Justice Aderonke Aderemi, the retired justice who chairs the authority, detailed the events in a statement released from Ibadan. She reported that the initial clash happened at the team's base in Ilua, where armed individuals allegedly pointed weapons at the officers. Security personnel attached to the unit acted quickly to protect the team and moved them away from the immediate threat. As the group traveled along Iseyin Road toward Okeho town, they encountered a second wave of aggression near the Palace axis. Officers took cover and evaluated the situation before continuing their withdrawal.
Aderemi characterized the violence as unacceptable and heartbreaking, noting that it endangered both law enforcement personnel and the broader rule of law in the region. She confirmed that the Nigeria Police Force has been notified and is managing the situation. The chairperson issued a stern warning to any parties attempting to disrupt public order or endanger lives, asserting that the state government will not tolerate such behavior. She emphasized that the authority remains dedicated to its duties despite the risks involved.
The authority reassured the public that it will continue to uphold statutory responsibilities while prioritizing the safety of its staff and citizens. Aderemi urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies to ensure peace. She stated that the team will not be deterred from its mission and called for continued public support in maintaining law and order across the state.