The Oyo State Government has cautioned Justices of the Peace to remain impartial in handling minor disputes in their communities and to refrain from interfering in criminal matters beyond their jurisdiction.
The warning was issued by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Ayodeji Aikomo, during the screening of over 300 applicants for the honorary JP title.
The two-day exercise, held at the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Secretariat, Agodi, Ibadan, was aimed at selecting only competent and credible individuals for the role.
In a statement on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the screening underscored the state’s commitment to strengthening grassroots justice.
Aikomo stressed that JPs must embody integrity, impartiality, and confidentiality in discharging their duties.
“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 noted that the JP title is not a status symbol but a call to service, urging applicants to see the role as an opportunity to promote peace and fairness in their communities.
Explaining their responsibilities, the commissioner said JPs are expected to mediate in minor civil disputes, foster harmony, and support legal processes by witnessing affidavits and other documents.
Earlier, the Director of the Citizens Mediation Centre, Mrs. Adeola Adeleke, advised applicants to study the JP manuals to gain deeper understanding of their roles, while the Director of Administration and Supplies, Mrs. Fatimo Yusuf, described the position as one fundamentally about “making peace, building harmony, and supporting justice based on truth.”
Members of the screening panel, comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Justice and related agencies, assessed applicants on integrity, record of community service, and knowledge of JP duties.
Successful candidates will be formally conferred with the honorary title after the completion of due diligence.
