The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has unveiled two new judicial facilities in Ijebu North Local Government Area, a reconstructed Magistrates’ Court Complex in Ago-Iwoye and a newly built Customary Court in Oru-Ijebu.
Penpushing reports that the reconstructed Magistrates’ Court Complex, had fallen into a deplorable state due to age and weather before the community took it upon itself to rebuild the facility rather than wait for state intervention.
The two courtrooms were delivered through community and traditional ruler-led initiatives, while the inauguration came barely a week Dipeolu inaugurated a purpose-built Multi-Door Courthouse at Idi-Oke/Igbesa.
Penpushing further reports that the courthouse was donated by the Olu of Idi-Oke Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ifalohun Odusanya, to mark his 10th coronation anniversary.
The Chief Judge while speaking pointed out that the building is an architectural manifestation of a community’s resilient spirit and commitment to the rule of law, and commended the leadership of the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdul-Rasaq Adenugba, for mobilising his subjects behind the project.
Penpushing also reports that Dipeolu quoting American anthropologist Margaret Mead, described the structure as proof that the traditional institution remains a bedrock of societal development.
‘Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has. Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it. We do not just see a building; we see an architectural manifestation of a community’s resilient spirit and commitment to the rule of law,” she said.
Penpushing reports that she highlighted Ago-Iwoye’s broader contribution to the state judiciary as host community to Olabisi Onabanjo University, noting that the town has consistently supplied the judiciary with skilled personnel at both management and magisterial levels.
The Chief Judge inaugurating a newly built Customary Court donated to the judiciary by the Oru-Ijebu community, paid tribute to the Oloru of Oru-Ijebu, Oba AbdulRasaq Adebanjo, and other stakeholders including Professor Taiwo Oshipitan, and Justice I. A. Odugbesan for their roles in the project
Penpushing further reports that she stressed the unique closeness of Customary Courts to ordinary citizens, describing them as the first point of contact many Nigerians have with the justice system.
“Ago-Iwoye does not just host a court; Ago-Iwoye breathes life into the legal system of our state. They are often the courts closest to the people. They handle matters that touch directly on the daily lives of our citizens, including family disputes, inheritance matters, land issues and questions arising from customary law and traditions,” she said.
Penpushing also reports that the Chief Judge stressed that the value of a courthouse lies not in its structure but in the conduct of those who serve within it.
“Buildings do not administer justice; people do. The success of this court will depend on the integrity, diligence, fairness and professionalism of those entrusted with its operation,” he said at Oru-Ijebu, echoing a similar charge delivered at Ago-Iwoye.
Penpushing also reports that citing the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, she urged court personnel to pursue “justice with a human face”, calling on litigants and the public to continue resolving disputes through lawful means.
The Chief Judge expressed hope that the twin commissionings would inspire other communities across Ogun State to support the development of judicial infrastructure within their own domains.
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