From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Oyo State government has trained over 80 enforcement officers and other relevant law enforcement agencies on the best legal framework and psychology of law enforcement under new laws introduced by the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration.
Participants at the two-day training session were drawn from the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Environmental and Sanitation Task Force, Amotekun Corps, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, and various operational security outfits.
The training aimed to enhance their understanding of human behavior in enforcing laws and ensuring compliance.
The Chairman of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), Hon. Justice Aderonke Aderemi, stated that the engagement was designed to familiarize officers with emerging trends in the legal framework of three major agencies: OYRTMA, Environmental Protection and Sanitation, and the Anti-Open Rearing and Open Grazing Prohibition Law.
She emphasized the indispensable role of security agencies in ensuring public cooperation and compliance with the law.
“This gathering is not just a training event but a step towards strengthening law enforcement strategies, improving compliance, and promoting a safer and more orderly society in Oyo State,” she noted.
“The creation of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) is a testament to Governor Seyi Makinde’s dedication to public safety, environmental sustainability, and economic progress.
“To our enforcement officers and all participants, I commend you for your commitment to upholding the rule of law and for your dedication to serving Oyo State with integrity, professionalism, and excellence.”
The training, themed Psychology of Law Enforcement: Strategies for Compliance under the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Environmental Protection and Sanitation Law, and Open Grazing Prohibition Law, highlighted the importance of understanding human behavior in enforcing laws.
Hon. Justice Aderemi further stated that violators of environmental, traffic, and grazing laws risk not only penalties but also jail terms if found guilty. She urged residents and stakeholders to cooperate in achieving a new, law-abiding Oyo State in line with Governor Makinde’s vision.
According to her, law enforcement, particularly in road traffic management, environmental protection, and agricultural regulation, requires more than just knowledge of the law.
“Enforcing laws in Oyo State is a collective responsibility. Each of us plays a vital role in ensuring our roads are safe, our environment is protected, and public order is maintained. Through continuous training and modern enforcement techniques, we can build a system that fosters voluntary compliance, minimizes conflicts, and enhances public trust in law enforcement agencies,” she said.
She encouraged participants to approach the sessions with an open mind, engage actively, and apply the knowledge gained in their daily responsibilities.
In his goodwill message, the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Architect Abdulmojeed Olawale Mogbojubola, emphasized the significance of understanding human behavior in enforcing laws. He urged participants to see themselves as agents of change and ensure their communities feel their impact.
The Head of Service, Oyo State, Mrs. Olubunmi Oni, represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Akeem Ademola Audu, highlighted the visible effects of OYRLEA in Ibadan. She encouraged the agency to build on its successes.
The Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd.), reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to upholding the rule of law with integrity and professionalism.
The Director General of the Oyo State Mobilization Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED), Dr. Morounkola Thomas, stressed that public awareness of penalties fosters compliance. He noted that the state has started witnessing positive changes due to the efforts of various agencies and task forces.
Other goodwill messages at the event emphasized the importance of building a system that encourages voluntary compliance among residents.
Facilitators at the training, Dr. Bamisaye Olutola and Macaulay Modupeore Ojukotimi, Head of Specialized Training at LASTMA, trained participants on legal frameworks, enforcement, and compliance under OYRTMA.
Participants affirmed that the workshop had a significant impact on their psychology and efficiency, making their enforcement duties more effective and seamless.
The event was attended by Commissioners for Justice and Agriculture, who commended the collaborative efforts of OYRLEA in ensuring full compliance with existing laws in Oyo State.
Dignitaries present included the Chairperson of the Oyo State Anti-Corruption Agency (OYACA), Hon. Justice Eni Esan (Rtd.), Hon. Justice Olajumoke Aiki from the Anti-Land Grabbing Agency, and Revd. J.K. Afolabi, among others.