Oyo warns JPs against interfering in criminal cases
The Oyo State Government has urged Justices of the Peace to remain fair and impartial in handling minor disputes within their communities and to avoid interfering in criminal matters beyond their jurisdiction.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ayodeji Aikomo, delivered the charge during the screening of over 300 applicants for the honorary Justice of the Peace (JP) title at the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan. The two-day exercise aims to ensure that only competent and credible candidates are selected, according to a statement issued Thursday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade.
Aikomo underscored integrity, impartiality, and confidentiality as core JP values. “Uphold integrity, act without bias, maintain confidentiality, and serve with fairness. Do not take sides in disputes, do not exploit the position for personal gain, and do not interfere in criminal cases beyond your jurisdiction,” he cautioned. He added that the JP title is not for prestige but a call to serve with honour, fairness, and responsibility.
Outlining JP functions, the Commissioner said they are expected to promote peace and order, mediate minor civil disputes, and support legal processes by witnessing affidavits and other legal documents.
In her welcome address, the Director of the Citizens Mediation Centre, Mrs. Adeola Adeleke, encouraged applicants to study the JP manuals to deepen their understanding of the role. Similarly, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Fatimo Yusuf, reiterated that the position is fundamentally about “making peace, building harmony, and supporting justice based on truth.”
A screening panel comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Justice and related agencies assessed applicants on integrity, community service, and knowledge of JP responsibilities. The exercise reflects the state government’s commitment to expanding access to justice at the grassroots and ensuring fair resolution of minor disputes. Successful applicants will be formally conferred with the honorary JP title after due diligence is completed.

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