The Oyo State Government is set to begin stringent enforcement of regulations governing traffic, waste management, and street trading, according to Governor Seyi Makinde in his latest newsletter, No. 101, issued on October 31, 2024.
Governor Makinde highlighted that after approximately 18 months of public sensitization, the government will now prioritize enforcement of these laws. He emphasized that the enforcement measures are outlined in the Oyo State Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2023-2027, under Section 6, titled “Rule of Law.”
“It is imperative to let our people know that we will be taking action against anyone who is found violating these laws, so that our actions are not viewed as sudden,” Makinde wrote.
He added that the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority, recently established, will collaborate with existing agencies to uphold these regulations, urging residents to support the initiatives aimed at enhancing sustainable development in Oyo State.
This announcement follows the governor’s signing of the Rule of Law Enforcement Authority Bill into law on April 12, 2024. The new law, approved by the Oyo State House of Assembly, is designed to expedite justice delivery for offenders. Governor Makinde noted that the state had previously faced challenges in fully enforcing certain regulations due to issues between state and federal law enforcement agencies.
In response to questions regarding updates on the Youth Entrepreneurship in Agribusiness Project (YEAP), the governor confirmed plans to provide enterprise support to beneficiaries. The government has allocated N500 million, with First City Monument Bank (FCMB) contributing an additional N1 billion for the initiative.
Additionally, Governor Makinde addressed plans for an intra-city rail network as part of the roadmap, revealing ongoing discussions with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to advance the project.