The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has commenced enforcement of regulations against street trading, open grazing, and environmental violations, an exercise that directly affects many informal micro businesses in major markets across the state.
The enforcement team, led by OYRLEA Chairperson Justice Eni Esan Aderemi (rtd) and Environmental Task Force Chairman DCP Francis Ojomo (rtd), carried out operations in Ibadan, beginning with Bodija Market, where several roadside stalls and mobile kiosks were dismantled.
“This enforcement is to ensure full compliance with the state’s environmental and business regulations. We have warned and sensitised; now we are taking action,” said Aderemi, recalling earlier awareness campaigns launched in January.
Elsewhere, in response to petitions from residents of Unique Estate, Oluyole, three rams and a cow were impounded for violating the anti-open grazing law. A seven-day ultimatum was issued to reclaim the animals or face forfeiture.
In Abidiodan, Lagelu Local Government Area, residents occupying road setbacks were also given seven days to remove shanties said to be linked to illegal activities.
While these actions reflect the state’s commitment to enforcing laws, they also highlight the vulnerability of informal traders who rely on roadside visibility and low-cost stalls. Stakeholders have called for supportive measures such as access to designated trading zones, formalisation support, and simplified compliance frameworks to ease the transition of informal businesses into the formal economy.
