The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) says it has tried no fewer than 6,000 traffic offenders from September 2024 to date.

Chairperson of the agency, Justice Aderonke Aderemi, stated this on Monday in Ibadan, while reviewing the agency’s activities at an inter-ministerial news briefing organised by the media unit of Governor Seyi Makinde.

She added that about 3,000 erring individuals were also tried for environmental offences.

According to her, the OYRLEA set up two tribunals that try violators of the state rules and regulations.

Ms Aderemi, however, clarified that the agency handles misdemeanour offences and simple crimes. She emphasised that it does not deal with serious crimes like murder.

She explained that the agency, established in 2024, was created to enforce existing laws related to environmental protection, traffic management, and open grazing.

Ms Aderemi added that offences attract jail terms and the option of fines for offenders or lawbreakers.

“The tribunals were strategically positioned to prosecute those apprehended, just as counsel are available to defend suspects, who can also apply for bail depending on the degree of offences committed.

“In order to achieve success, we have been collaborating with ministries, departments, other agencies of government, and organisations, including Amotekun Corps, the police, the military, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Legal Aid Council, among others.

“All our activities are geared towards ensuring that residents of the state comply with established regulations, which makes them live in a peaceful and safe environment,” she said.

The judge further stated that the agency’s efforts had helped curb open grazing and farmer-herder clashes across many locations in the state.

(NAN)