The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has confiscated 18 cows along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, around the Abiola Ajimobi Technical University axis, following repeated complaints from residents and motorists.

Residents and road users had raised alarm over the frequent presence of cattle on and around the highway, describing it as a serious obstruction and a potential cause of fatal road accidents.

Acting on the petitions, OYRLEA’s enforcement team first conducted an inspection of the area and identified where the cows were being kept and herded. On their return for enforcement, however, the herders had been tipped off and moved the animals before the officers arrived.

Determined to address the menace, the team returned to the location without prior notice. The surprise operation caught the herders off guard and resulted in the successful confiscation of 18 cows found roaming the area.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Honourable Justice Aderonke A. Aderemi (Rtd.), said the Authority will not tolerate any activity that endangers public safety or obstructs major highways in the state.

“This confiscation sends a clear message that Oyo State will enforce its laws without fear or favour. The Lagos–Ibadan Expressway is a critical economic corridor and must not be turned into grazing fields. Anyone found flouting traffic and environmental regulations will face the full weight of the law”, Justice Aderemi stated.

She added that OYRLEA remains committed to responding swiftly to legitimate complaints from the public and will sustain targeted enforcement to ensure free flow of traffic, protect lives and property, and uphold the rule of law across the state.

The Authority urged members of the public to continue reporting activities that constitute a threat to safety, obstruct public roads, or amount to a nuisance. It assured residents that all credible complaints will receive immediate and appropriate attention.