The Oyo State Government has urged Justices of the Peace (JPs) to remain fair and impartial in handling minor disputes within their communities, while also avoiding interference in criminal cases beyond their jurisdiction.
The call was made by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Ayodeji Abiodun Aikomo, Esq., who spoke on the recent screening of over 300 applicants for the honorary Justice of the Peace title, held at the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan.
The two-day exercise was designed to ensure that only competent and credible individuals are selected to serve as JPs. The role, according to the Commissioner, is vital to strengthening grassroots justice by mediating minor disputes, promoting peace, and serving as moral guides in communities.
Addressing newsmen after the screening, Hon. Aikomo emphasized integrity, impartiality, and confidentiality as the core values expected of Justices of the Peace.
“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 further stressed that the JP title is not for prestige but a call to serve with honour, fairness, and responsibility.
Highlighting the functions of JPs, the Commissioner explained that they are expected to “promote peace and order in their communities, mediate minor civil disputes, and support legal processes by witnessing affidavits and other legal documents.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of the Citizens Mediation Centre, Mrs. Adeola Ige Adeleke, encouraged applicants to study the Justice of Peace manuals to gain deeper knowledge of their roles. Similarly, the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Fatimo Yusuf, reiterated that the JP role is fundamentally about “making peace, building harmony, and supporting justice based on truth.”
The screening panel, comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Justice and related agencies, assessed applicants based on integrity, community service, and understanding of JP responsibilities.
The exercise reflects Oyo State Government’s commitment to deepening access to justice at the grassroots and ensuring fairness in the resolution of minor disputes. Successful applicants will be formally conferred with the honorary JP title after due diligence is completed.
