Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has revealed that the Federal Government has approved the establishment of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta, the state capital. Governor Abiodun made the revelation at a special church thanksgiving to mark the 2025/2026 legal year, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta. He said the establishment of the Appellate Court would bring justice closer, ensure quick dispensation, and help take the load off the Ibadan Division. He said: “We have finally received the formal approval for the establishment of the Ogun State division of the Federal Court of Appeal in Abeokuta. “This is indeed a landmark achievement of an initiative proudly and aggressively championed by our administration to bring justice closer to our people and to ease the heavy caseload currently on the Ibadan division. “As a government, we recognize that justice is the foundation of every prosperous society, and we appreciate the fact that the Ogun State judiciary has not only maintained its independence but has also taken commendable strides towards improving access to justice, reducing case backlogs, and embracing reforms.” The governor pointed out that justice could not thrive without integrity, impartiality, and courage, admonishing the judicial officers to renew their dedication to a system where the scales of justice remain balanced, the most vulnerable voices heard, and where it provides an opportunity for every man, woman, and child to be protected by the law. While acknowledging that a strong, independent, and upright judiciary provides a pathway to good governance, economic development, and social stability, Governor Abiodun said that as a responsive and responsible administration, it appreciates the place of the judiciary in entrenching the ideals and practices of democracy. “Our administration will continue to provide the necessary support and resources to enhance judicial efficiency and uphold the integrity of the legal system in our dear state. “We will continue to prioritize the welfare and accommodations of judicial officers by making adequate housing arrangements and providing other essential support for our judges and other judicial staff who may be posted to serve in the Ogun State division of the Court of Appeal,” he said. He lauded the State Chief Judge for repositioning the judiciary through impactful reforms and the judicial officers for maintaining the state’s position as the beacon of the legal profession in the country. In a sermon, the Bishop of Ijebuland South/West Diocese, the Rt. Rev’d Babatunde Ogunbanwo, described the judiciary as the most powerful arm of government that gives or takes life, dethrones or enthrones kings, as well as sacks elected officers or brings those who lost elections to power. He urged judges to always act justly by being fair to all manners of people, irrespective of their social or economic status, noting that society would only thrive when justice reigns. The clergyman reminded judicial officers about the place of mercy while dispensing justice, saying it is imperative to be firm with the law but to have a heart of compassion, as justice without mercy could be cruel. While calling on the judiciary to be bold and ready to confront the negativities of the system, Bishop Ogunbanwo urged them to make fairness their watchword and allow their conscience to speak louder, knowing that they will give an account of their stewardship to God, the ultimate Judge. The Chief Judge of the State, Hon. Justice Mosumola Dipeolu, read the only Bible passage taken from Colossians 3:8-17.
