The proposed skating regulation bill in Osun State has sparked a heated public debate, with proponents emphasizing safety concerns and critics arguing that it stifles recreational activities. Speaker of the House, Adewale Egbedun, has stepped forward to clarify the bill’s intentions and address the public outcry, asserting that the legislation aims to regulate, not ban, skating in public spaces, particularly on highways and busy roads. The bill’s primary objective is to mitigate the inherent dangers associated with skating in these areas, protecting both skaters and the general public from potential accidents.
Egbedun highlights the prevalent practice of skaters clinging to moving vehicles, a dangerous activity that poses a significant risk of accidents. In such scenarios, drivers often bear the brunt of legal responsibility, even when the accidents are beyond their control. The bill seeks to address this issue by restricting skating in hazardous areas, shifting the focus from punitive measures against drivers to preventative measures that protect all road users. The absence of designated skating parks in the state further exacerbates the problem, encouraging skaters to engage in risky behavior on public roads.
Acknowledging the need for designated skating areas, Egbedun points to the ongoing transformation of the Osogbo City Stadium, which includes plans for a dedicated skating arena. This development will provide a safe and structured environment for skating enthusiasts, allowing them to pursue their passion without endangering themselves or others. The provision of a dedicated skating facility underscores the bill’s intent to promote responsible skating practices, not to stifle the sport altogether.
Egbedun draws parallels with similar regulations implemented in Lagos State during the administration of former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola. The Lagos State Traffic Law (2010) also restricted skating on public roads, recognizing the inherent dangers associated with such activities. This precedent reinforces the validity of the proposed regulations in Osun State, highlighting a shared concern for public safety across different states.
The proposed bill signifies a proactive approach to address a growing safety concern. It seeks to strike a balance between allowing recreational activities and ensuring the safety of all road users. The criticism leveled against the bill seems to stem from a misunderstanding of its true intent. Rather than banning skating outright, the bill seeks to regulate it in a manner that promotes safety and responsible practices.
The Osun State House of Assembly’s initiative should be viewed as a commendable effort to protect public safety. By providing designated skating areas and restricting skating in hazardous locations, the bill aims to create a safer environment for both skaters and the general public. The proposed regulations reflect a proactive approach to address a pressing safety issue, and the Assembly deserves praise for its commitment to the well-being of its citizens. The bill’s aim is not to curtail recreational activities but to regulate them in a manner that prioritizes safety and responsible behavior. The creation of designated skating parks, alongside the restrictions on public roads, offers a balanced approach, allowing skating to thrive while minimizing the risks associated with it.
