Oyo govt cautions new JPs against meddling in criminal cases

…screens over 300 applicants for honorary title

By Adejayan Gbenga –

The Oyo State Government has warned newly screened Justices of the Peace (JPs) against interfering in criminal cases outside their jurisdiction, stressing that their role is strictly to promote peace and fairness at the grassroots.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Ayodeji Abiodun Aikomo, Esq., gave the caution during the screening of over 300 applicants for the honorary JP title, held at the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.

Aikomo explained that the two-day exercise was designed to select only credible and competent individuals, noting that the JP position exists to strengthen grassroots justice through mediation in minor disputes and by serving as moral guides in their communities.

He charged applicants to uphold integrity, impartiality, and confidentiality in the discharge of their duties, warning them against exploiting the position for personal gain or taking sides in disputes. “Do not interfere in criminal cases beyond your jurisdiction,” he stressed.

The Commissioner further emphasized that the JP title should not be seen as a symbol of prestige but as a call to serve with fairness, responsibility, and honour. He highlighted their core functions, including mediating civil disputes, promoting peace and order, and supporting legal processes by witnessing affidavits and other documents.

Earlier, the Director of the Citizens’ Mediation Centre, Mrs. Adeola Ige Adeleke, urged applicants to study the JP manuals to fully understand the scope of their responsibilities. She described the role as critical to peacebuilding and conflict resolution at the grassroots.

Also speaking, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Fatimo Yusuf, reminded participants that the JP title is fundamentally about “making peace, building harmony, and supporting justice based on truth,” urging them to approach the assignment with sincerity.

The screening, conducted by a panel of senior officials from the Ministry of Justice and related agencies, assessed applicants based on integrity, community service, and knowledge of JP duties. The government stated that successful candidates will be conferred with the honorary JP title after all necessary checks have been completed.