Oyo Environmental Tribunal convicts 13 for illegal diesel sales, imposes fine

By Adejayan Gbenga –

Thirteen individuals have been convicted by the Oyo State Environmental Tribunal for operating illegal diesel sales outlets without proper licenses along the Toll Gate axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The judgment was confirmed in a statement by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, on Monday, August 4.

The Mobile Court, sitting at the premises of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) in Ibadan, found the offenders guilty of engaging in hazardous, waste-generating activities without approvals from the relevant regulatory bodies.

Presiding Judge, Barrister Jubreel Adio, imposed a fine of ₦200,000 on each defendant or, in default, a five-year prison term. He noted that although the standard penalty for the offense is ₦5 million or five years’ imprisonment, the court exercised leniency because the offenders were first-time violators.

“The defendants admitted their guilt and asked for mercy, but ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” Adio said. “Let this serve as a warning. A repeat offense will attract the full weight of the law.”

Two community leaders, Alhaji Olalere Taiwo Hassan and Mr. Saheed Folarin, volunteered as sureties. Alhaji Hassan submitted the vehicle documents of his silver 2006 Toyota RAV4 (Reg No: LLD 587 JQ) as collateral to the Ministry of Environment, which will retain the documents until all fines are paid.

The court warned that the sureties would be held accountable if the fines are not settled.

“This tribunal is not a tool for extortion but an instrument for enforcing environmental compliance and public safety,” Adio added. “You were lucky today. Next time, you may not meet a merciful court.”