Oyo Assembly Demands Overhaul of Amotekun, Grazing Law Amid Security Gaps in Communities
The Oyo State House of Assembly has called for major reforms to strengthen the Amotekun security network and improve enforcement of the Open Rearing and Grazing Regulation Law, 2019, with growing emphasis on community safety and child protection in Oyo State.
Lawmakers made the call after a post-legislative review that assessed how both laws have affected insecurity, farmer-herder tensions, and safety in communities where children are often most at risk during violent incidents.
The review, carried out with support from stakeholders, found that the grazing law has helped reduce clashes in some areas. However, it also noted gaps that continue to expose rural communities, including children, to avoidable security risks.
According to the committee, enforcement structures remain concentrated in urban centres, leaving many local governments without adequate protection. This imbalance, lawmakers warned, weakens early response systems that are critical for safeguarding children in remote communities.
The report also highlighted weak coordination between Amotekun, the police, and other security agencies. It said poor communication and limited resources reduce the effectiveness of rapid intervention during emergencies affecting families and schools.
Lawmakers further raised concern over inadequate funding, manpower shortages, and poor logistics. They said these challenges limit the ability of security agencies to prevent incidents that place children in harm’s way.
On Amotekun operations, the Assembly recommended stronger accountability systems, including the full activation of a complaints committee to address abuse and build public trust. It also called for improved training on human rights and child-sensitive policing.
In addition, the lawmakers proposed better welfare for operatives and clearer operational rules to ensure coordinated responses in communities where children are vulnerable.
The Assembly concluded that while both laws have improved security management, stronger reforms are necessary to enhance protection for families and ensure safer environments for children across the state.
