The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has commissioned two judicial facilities built through community-driven initiatives in Ijebu North Local Government Area, praising the role of traditional institutions and residents in strengthening access to justice.
The newly inaugurated facilities include a reconstructed Magistrates’ Court Complex in Ago-Iwoye and a newly built Customary Court in Oru-Ijebu.
Their commissioning comes less than a week after the CJ unveiled a purpose-built Multi-Door Courthouse at Idi-Oke/Igbesa, donated by the Olu of Idi-Oke Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ifalohun Odusanya, to commemorate the 10th anniversary of his coronation.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Magistrates’ Court Complex in Ago-Iwoye, Justice Dipeolu said the rebuilt facility represented more than a physical structure, describing it as a symbol of the community’s commitment to the rule of law.
“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.
The Chief Judge commended the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdul-Rasaq Adenugba, for mobilising residents to reconstruct the old court building after it had deteriorated due to age and weather.
She noted that the community’s decision to rebuild the facility without waiting for government intervention demonstrated the enduring importance of traditional leadership in societal development.
Quoting American anthropologist Margaret Mead, Dipeolu said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
She also acknowledged Ago-Iwoye’s longstanding contribution to Ogun State’s judiciary, noting that the town, which hosts Olabisi Onabanjo University, has consistently produced skilled legal professionals and judicial officers.
“Ago-Iwoye does not just host a court; Ago-Iwoye breathes life into the legal system of our state,” she said.
At Oru-Ijebu, the chief judge inaugurated a newly constructed customary court donated by the community.
She praised the Oloru of Oru-Ijebu, Oba AbdulRasaq Adebanjo, as well as other key contributors, including Professor Taiwo Oshipitan and Justice I. A. Odugbesan, for supporting the project.
Dipeolu described customary courts as the closest judicial institutions to many Nigerians, stressing their critical role in resolving everyday disputes affecting local communities.
“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.
Drawing from the words of American jurist Learned Hand, she reminded stakeholders that justice ultimately depends on the values of the people who uphold it.
“Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution, no law, no court can save it,” she said.
The chief judge emphasised that the effectiveness of any courthouse would be determined not by its physical appearance but by the integrity and professionalism of judicial officers and court staff.
“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,” she said during the ceremonies.
Referencing the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Dipeolu urged judicial personnel to pursue “justice with a human face” while encouraging members of the public to continue resolving disputes through lawful channels.
She expressed optimism that the successful delivery of the two projects would encourage more communities across Ogun State to partner with the judiciary in expanding and improving judicial infrastructure.
