APC’s Basiru, Osun Assembly Bicker Over Proposed Jail Term For Public Skating

A proposed bill by the Osun State House of Assembly seeking to penalise public road skating with a six-month jail term or a N250,000 fine has sparked a war of words between the Assembly and the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru.

The bill, sponsored under the leadership of Speaker Adewale Egbedun, has faced public criticism, with Basiru leading the charge against it.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the former senator condemned the proposal, describing it as misplaced and ill-timed.

He urged the Assembly to withdraw the bill, stressing that the state is grappling with more urgent challenges.

“We are disturbed by the proposal of punishment for open skating in Osun State. For us, it is coming at a time when skating stars are being discovered in Nigeria,” Basiru said.

He further advised the lawmakers to consult with experts before initiating or debating such legislative actions.

In response to the backlash, the Legislative Assistant to the Speaker, Olugbenga Akanfe, clarified that the bill does not seek to ban skating entirely.

It aims to regulate public skating, especially on highways and busy roads, citing safety concerns for both skaters and the general public.

“In many parts of the state, it is common to see skaters clinging to moving vehicles, buses, motorcycles, or commercial tricycles (Keke NAPEP). These acts are extremely risky. When vehicles speed up unexpectedly, skaters often lose control, leading to accidents.

“The increasing rate of such unsafe skating activities on major roads is concerning. A key reason is the absence of designated skating parks in the state. However, with the ongoing transformation of the Osogbo City Stadium by His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, there are plans to include a proper skating arena within the facility. This development will provide a safe and structured environment for skating enthusiasts.”