A proposed bill by Osun State House of Assembly seeking to penalise public road skating with a six-month jail term or a N250,000 fine has sparked war of words between the assembly and the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru.
The Nation reports that the bill, sponsored under the leadership of Speaker Adewale Egbedun, has faced public criticism, with Basiru leading opposition against it.
In a statement issued yesterday, Basiru condemned the proposal, describing it as misplaced and ill-timed.
He urged the assembly to withdraw the bill, noting that the state was 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 skating stars are being discovered in Nigeria,” Basiru said.
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He advised the lawmakers to consult with experts before initiating or debating such legislative actions.
Responding, the Legislative Assistant to the Speaker, Olugbenga Akanfe, said the bill did not seek to ban skating entirely.
He said it aimed to regulate public skating, especially on the highways and busy roads, citing safety concerns for skaters and the 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 worrisome. A key reason is the absence of designated skating parks in the state. However, with the ongoing transformation of Osogbo City Stadium by 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,” Akanfe said.
