The Oyo State Government on Thursday conferred the title of Justice of the Peace (JP) on 345 distinguished citizens, urging them to view the honour as a solemn responsibility rather than a mere title.

The state Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, advised during the conferment ceremony at the House of Chiefs, Parliament Building, Secretariat, Ibadan. He cautioned that the title could be withdrawn if misused.

“To be singled out as one of the recipients tells all that you are a man of peace. It shows your track records are clean and that you are not associated with any form of crime. I urge you to take the title seriously as it has its source from the constitution. Discharge your duties responsibly,” Lawal said.

He also advised recipients to study the JP manual thoroughly, exercise caution when assigning signatures or stamps, and avoid turning the title into a business venture.

The state Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, emphasised that the JP office carries a higher responsibility to ensure justice and fairness in society.

“The title ‘Justice of the Peace’ is not a decorative badge of social status; it is a functional tool for social engineering. This administration maintains a zero-tolerance policy for abuse of office. A JP must never be a ‘local tyrant’,” he said, noting that JPs play a critical role in de-escalating disputes and certifying documents to protect citizens from fraud.

Representing the state Chief Judge, Justice Adedeji Ishola, reiterated that the office demands strict adherence to established principles, while Prof Adeniyi Olatunbosun described it as an emblem of peace and a moral anchor for society.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Olubunmi Oluwatoyin, expressed gratitude to the State Government, Judiciary, and stakeholders for supporting the successful event.