The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has condemned an attack on its enforcement team by suspected herders during an early-morning operation in Okeho, Kajola Local Government Area, warning that such acts of violence would not be tolerated.
The attack occurred at about 6:30 a.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, in the Ilua area of Okeho, while the enforcement team was carrying out an operation to enforce the state’s Open Rearing and Grazing Regulations Law, 2019.
According to the Authority, the officers were confronted by suspected herders who allegedly raised firearms against them at their operational point in Ilua.
Security operatives attached to the team reportedly took immediate measures to protect personnel and withdrew from the danger zone to avoid casualties.
However, the enforcement team came under a second attack around the Palace axis as they proceeded along Iseyin Road into Okeho town.
The officers were forced to take cover, assess the situation and adopt necessary safety measures in response to the renewed attack.
OYRLEA disclosed that the incidents had been reported to the Nigeria Police Force, which had taken over the matter.
Reacting, the Chairperson of the Authority, Hon. Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), described the attack as unfortunate and unacceptable, insisting that it was a direct threat to law enforcement and peaceful coexistence in Oyo State.
She said, “This attack is cruel and heartbreaking. It is an attack not just on our officers, but on the rule of law and the peace of our dear state.”
The chairperson, however, assured residents that the Authority remained committed to discharging its statutory responsibilities and would not be intimidated by threats or attacks against its personnel.
“We want to assure all citizens of their safety while we carry out our operations. We will not be deterred,” she declared.
She warned individuals and groups involved in activities capable of threatening human lives, destroying property or disrupting public peace to desist, stressing that the state would not tolerate any attempt to undermine law and order.
Aderemi also called on residents to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace and security, while reiterating OYRLEA’s resolve to enforce the state’s laws within the confines of the law.
The Oyo State Government urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding as security authorities continue to address the incident.
