NIyi JACOBS
In a decisive move to curb environmental violations, the Oyo State Environmental Tribunal has convicted 13 individuals for operating illegal diesel sales points without regulatory approval along the Toll Gate area of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
Presiding over the mobile court session held at the premises of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Judge Jubreel Adio ruled that each offender must pay a fine of ₦200,000 or face a five-year prison sentence. The convictions mark a strong statement against the growing trend of unregulated petroleum product sales across the state.
“The sale of diesel and petroleum products without proper authorization poses a significant environmental and public safety hazard,” the judge declared. “Ignorance of the law is not an excuse.”
Although the standard fine for such infractions is ₦5 million or imprisonment, the court exercised discretion, citing the defendants’ status as first-time offenders and their socioeconomic background as petty traders. Still, the judge warned that repeat offenders would not be treated with similar leniency.
“This ruling is a warning. If any of these individuals return to this court, they will face the full weight of the law,” he added.
Community leaders Alhaji Olalere Taiwo Hassan and Mr. Saheed Folarin stepped forward to stand as sureties for the offenders, offering guarantees for payment. Alhaji Hassan deposited vehicle documents for his silver 2006 Toyota RAV4 (registration number: LLD 587 JQ) with the Ministry of Environment, where they will be held until all fines are settled.
Judge Adio emphasized the tribunal’s broader mission: “We are not here to punish unnecessarily but to ensure environmental compliance, protect public health, and uphold the rule of law. This court is not an avenue for extortion. Today, you met a lenient judge. Next time, you may not be so lucky.”
Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, said the government is committed to strengthening environmental enforcement as part of its wider efforts to maintain a safe, clean, and lawful state.
