The Oyo State Government awarded Justice of the Peace titles to 345 citizens, urging them to fulfill their roles responsibly and warning against potential abuses of the title.
On Thursday, the Oyo State Government honored 345 distinguished individuals with the title of Justice of the Peace at a ceremony in Ibadan. Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal emphasized that the title is not just an honor, but a serious responsibility to serve the community and uphold the law. He encouraged the recipients to view this recognition as a call to duty, highlighting that their selection reflects a reputation for peace and integrity.
Lawal also provided explicit warnings about the misuse of their newly acquired titles, indicating that any misuse could result in the revocation of the conferred honors. He instructed the appointees to conduct themselves appropriately, advising them to be diligent in their duties, specifically in terms of legal documentation and responsibilities associated with their title. This focus reinforces the importance of maintaining ethical standards in their contributions to society.
The initiative appears aimed at enhancing the judiciary’s role at the local level by empowering citizens with the authority to assist in mediating disputes and promoting peace. This step is significant for Oyo State as it helps integrate community members into the judicial processes while also underscoring the importance of public service and moral responsibility among those entrusted with the title of JP.
