The Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) has commenced a mobile court enforcement operation at Bodija Market, Ibadan, arraigning several traders over alleged illegal occupation of roads, pedestrian walkways, drainage channels and other public spaces.
The exercise, presided over by Magistrate Olaniyan Folake Rachael, followed sustained sensitisation and enforcement efforts by the Authority to reclaim public spaces and restore order in major markets across the state.
Several defendants were arraigned over alleged violations, with some sentenced to three months’ imprisonment or a ₦30,000 fine, while others were granted bail of ₦200,000 with one surety each. Cases involving those granted bail were adjourned to September 11, 2026, for hearing.
Speaking at the scene on behalf of OYRLEA Chairperson, Hon. Justice Aderonke Adekemi Aderemi (Rtd.), the Chief of Staff, Kofoworola Akinbode, said the mobile court was necessary to reinforce compliance and restore sanity to market environments.
Akinbode stressed that while the Authority would continue to sensitise traders, persistent violations would attract decisive enforcement and judicial action.
Some market users welcomed the exercise, saying the indiscriminate display of goods on roads and walkways had obstructed movement, created safety risks and contributed to avoidable accidents.
OYRLEA reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing public-space and environmental regulations, urging traders to conduct their activities only within approved and designated areas.
The latest operation underscores the Authority’s renewed drive to make Ibadan’s markets safer, cleaner and more orderly.
