Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde has announced that individuals who forcibly encroach on land or property belonging to others will face the full wrath of the law under the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and Anti-Land Grabbing Agency established by government.
Makinde stated that land grabbers would be treated as criminals, adding that the era of forcefully taking possession of another person’s land is over.
He made this declaration at a one-day stakeholders engagement organised by Oyo State Mobilisation Agency for Socio-Economic Development in Ibadan.
The event aimed to revive the fading core values of Yoruba people.
Represented by his Deputy, Adebayo Lawal, the governor expressed confidence that OYMASED, in collaboration with other government institutions, would address key socio-economic challenges in the state.
Makinde noted that the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency would tackle the rising cases of land encroachment, describing the trend as alarming.
He also warned against indiscriminate cattle grazing, stating that offenders would be prosecuted by the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, headed by Justice Aderonke Aderemi.
He said, “We are not just focused on infrastructure, but also on strengthening institutions. OYMASED is one of such institutions 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.”
Makinde 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.”
The governor reiterated the importance of adhering to environmental laws and respecting public spaces, citing recent incidents of cattle grazing in inappropriate areas, including the state secretariat.
In his address, the director-general of OYMASED emphasised the need to preserve the core values of Yoruba people such as integrity, respect for elders and hospitality, that have been eroded over time.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, commended OYMASED for its initiatives and revealed plans for public awareness programmes in collaboration with the agency.
Justice Aderemi highlighted the governor’s efforts to restore law and order through the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority and OYMASED, stressing the importance of value reorientation and compliance with regulations.
Other speakers at the event include Dr Sybil Olufunmilayo Akinfenwa, Professor Oludayo Tade, and Dr (Mrs) Olukemi Akinyemi, who addressed topics ranging from crowd control to drug abuse and traffic management.
Dignitaries in attendance include former deputy governors, legal officials, traditional leaders, and representatives of various organisations.
