The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has commenced a mobile court enforcement exercise at Bodija Market, Ibadan, as part of efforts to reclaim public spaces and restore order in the state.
In a statement signed by the Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon. Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), on September 4, 2026, the Authority said the exercise was aimed at enforcing compliance with laws regulating the use of roads, pedestrian walkways, drainage channels and other public spaces.
The mobile court, presided over by Magistrate Olaniyan Folake Rachael, arraigned several traders accused of displaying and selling goods on unauthorised public spaces within the market environment.
Those arraigned included Hammed Jokotola, Bolanrewaju Ilman, Bosede Ajengiy, Sanni Sheu, Ramat Adewale, Abosede Aminat, Sauda Kunle, Akinlolu Mariam, Bilikisu Omotosho, Oriyomi Osuolale and several others.
The court sentenced some of the defendants to three months’ imprisonment with an option of a ₦30,000 fine, while others were granted bail in the sum of ₦200,000 with one surety each. The sureties are required to provide traceable addresses and valid means of identification, while matters involving those granted bail were adjourned to September 11, 2026.
Speaking at the scene on behalf of the OYRLEA Chairperson, the Chief of Staff, Kofoworola Akinbode, Esq., said the mobile court became necessary following sustained sensitisation and enforcement operations aimed at discouraging trading on roads, walkways and drainage channels.
She said the exercise was intended to demonstrate that government warnings and sensitisation would be followed by decisive enforcement where violations persist, reaffirming OYRLEA’s commitment to protecting public spaces and ensuring compliance with existing laws.
Some market users, including Esther Opara and Rebecca Quzeem, commended the initiative, saying the display of goods on roads had made movement difficult for pedestrians and motorists while contributing to safety concerns. OYRLEA reiterated its commitment to combining sensitisation, enforcement and judicial action where necessary to promote a safer, cleaner and more orderly environment across Ibadan.
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