Oyo State Takes Legal Action Against Unregistered Veterinary Businesses
The Oyo State Government has initiated legal proceedings against the proprietor of Lanre Pet Store along with four other entities, bringing them before a Magistrate Court in Ibadan. The charges relate to breaches of the Oyo State Private Veterinary Premises and Veterinary Establishment (Regulation) Law, 2017.
Defendants and Charges Explained
The accused parties include Emcare Pharmacy, Pro-Pet Store, Anike Pet Store, Mummy Ps Pet Store, and Mr. Adeleye Abayomi, who operates Lanre Pet Store within the Ibadan metropolitan area. They face a total of five counts, which encompass failure to comply with lawful directives issued by authorized officials under Section 203 of the Criminal Code Law, as well as obstructing public officers in the execution of their duties under Section 197.
Additional allegations involve hindering the Veterinary Premises Registration and Regulation Committee from performing its statutory functions, as stipulated in Section 16(2) of the Private Veterinary Premises and Veterinary Establishment (Regulation) Law, 2017. The defendants are also charged with conduct likely to incite public disorder under Section 249(1)(d), punishable under Section 249(3), and damaging government seals affixed during enforcement operations.
Background of the Enforcement Action
The offenses reportedly occurred within Ibadan during a regulatory inspection carried out by the state’s Veterinary Premises Registration and Regulation Committee. The Committee had previously sealed the implicated establishments due to non-compliance with mandatory registration and operational standards. However, the seals were allegedly tampered with, prompting the current legal measures.
The court has scheduled the next hearing for March 26, 2026.
Oyo State’s Commitment to Veterinary Regulation
In 2025, the Oyo State Government established the Veterinary Premises Registration and Regulation Committee to enforce the 2017 law. This body launched a comprehensive awareness campaign across the state, targeting private veterinary facility owners and operators. The initiative aimed to highlight the importance of registering veterinary establishments to ensure proper oversight, documentation, and quality assurance.
The sensitization efforts also stressed adherence to minimum operational standards, including employing qualified veterinary professionals, proper storage and handling of veterinary pharmaceuticals, and strict biosecurity protocols to curb the spread of zoonotic and other infectious diseases.
Official Statements on Regulatory Enforcement
Addressing the enforcement activities, Barrister Olasunkanmi Olaleye, Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, represented by Dr. Olakunle Olaoye, Deputy Director of Veterinary Services, emphasized that the 2017 legislation was designed to regulate private veterinary practices statewide and protect public health.
He highlighted the dangers posed by unregistered veterinary outlets, such as improper animal care, distribution of counterfeit or substandard veterinary medicines, and heightened risks of disease outbreaks affecting both animals and humans.
The Commissioner reaffirmed Governor Seyi Makinde‘s administration’s dedication to robust regulatory enforcement, underscoring that any actions undermining public safety or the government’s regulatory framework would not be tolerated.
Call to Action for Veterinary Establishment Operators
Owners and operators of private veterinary facilities who have yet to comply with registration requirements are urged to promptly register with the Department of Veterinary Services under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. Failure to adhere to these regulations will result in legal consequences consistent with the state’s laws.
As of 2024, over 85% of private veterinary establishments in Oyo State have completed registration, reflecting growing awareness and compliance. However, the government continues to monitor and enforce regulations to ensure the safety and well-being of both animals and the public.
