The Oyo State Government on Thursday said it was working towards stopping movement of cattle within the State, in its effort to bring an end to recurring cases of cattle-rustling and farmers’ clashes.
A statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Rotimi Babalola said the Oyo State Government assured cattle breeders and dealers in the state of adequate security in curbing incessant cattle rustling in the state.
The statement added that the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mrs. Christianah Abioye gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the Association of Cattle Breeders and Dealers, Oyo State Chapter in Ibadan.
Mrs. Abioye stated that the present administration in the state under the leadership of Engr. Seyi Makinde placed premium on security of lives and properties, adding that the government would not condone any ugly act of miscreants in the state.
According to her, the Oyo State Government would provide adequate security in markets and improve ranching system to enhance sanity in the cattle rearing business.
She noted that henceforth the ministry would liaise with all stakeholders to ensure safety and avert the ugly incidence of rustling.
The Permanent Secretary noted that a fruitful collaboration with all stakeholders will improve the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the state.
Earlier, the Chairman, Cattle Breeders and Dealers Association of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Alhaji Salawu Ademola revealed that cattle rustling in the state has been rampant, while efforts to curb it proved abortive.
Ademola, who is the zonal Coordinator, National Association of Cattle Breeders and Dealers, promised the Association’s cooperation with the Oyo State government to block all loopholes in the generation of IGR.