The Osun State House of Assembly has introduced a new bill that seeks to impose stringent penalties on individuals caught skating on public roads or sidewalks. Dubbed the “Osun State Skating Restriction Bill 2025,” the legislation proposes a penalty of up to six months in jail, a ₦250,000 fine, or both for offenders found skating in prohibited areas.
The bill was presented at a plenary session on May 6, 2025, with Speaker Adewale Egbedun highlighting the potential dangers of roller skating on busy public roads. He emphasized that skating should be confined to controlled environments such as skating rinks, as public roads present significant safety hazards to both skaters and pedestrians.
Under the new bill, any citizen can arrest individuals violating the rule and hand them over to the police. This provision has sparked some debate, with supporters asserting it will improve safety awareness, while critics question the role of citizens in law enforcement. Despite this, the bill is seen as a necessary measure to curb accidents involving roller skaters in traffic-heavy areas.
In addition to the skating bill, the assembly also discussed the Osun State Multi-Door Court House Establishment Bill 2025, which seeks to improve the state’s judicial system. However, the focus of the session was primarily on public safety, with the skating restriction bill expected to go through further review before its final approval.
While the bill has gained support from many public safety advocates, there is mixed reaction from the general public. Some residents argue that the proposed penalties are too harsh, while others believe the law is crucial for ensuring the safety of everyone on public roads. The bill’s progress will continue to be monitored, with further deliberation set for May 12, 2025.
