Governor Abiodun Gives 49 Duplexes to Ogun Judges, Swears in Five New Judges

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has given out 49 new duplexes to judges of the State High Court. This move aims to improve the welfare of judges and their working conditions in the state.

The governor announced this on Wednesday during the swearing-in ceremony of five new High Court judges at the Executive Chambers in Abeokuta.

The new judges are Luqman Oke, Adebimpe Obienu, Fatima Daudu, Rafiat Kadiri, and Oludotun Osho, which brings the total number of judges in Ogun State to 49.

Abiodun explained that the 49 duplexes are located at the President Muhammadu Buhari Estate along Kobape Road in Abeokuta. He said this was part of his administration's promise to improve judicial welfare and create a better environment for justice.

“As our administration approaches the conclusion of its tenure, we will continue to motivate and support the judiciary and provide for the welfare and well-being of our judges, who have signed up for this service to humanity, within our constitutional responsibilities,” he said.

The governor called the judiciary the last hope of the common man. He urged the newly sworn-in judges to maintain high standards of integrity, fairness, and professionalism.

He encouraged them to deliver justice without fear or favour, to carefully assess evidence, follow the law, and make sure their courts are accessible to all citizens.

He also warned the judges against being influenced by politics, personal connections, or financial incentives. He stressed that neither public opinion nor the status of any individual or political party should affect their decisions.

Judicial Infrastructure Development

To support judicial infrastructure, Abiodun revealed that work has started on the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal complex. This complex will be built on a 2.6-hectare site next to the State Judiciary Complex at Kobape.

He also mentioned the completion of six duplexes at Ibara Housing GRA, Abeokuta, for judicial officers, along with 20 bungalows at Prince Court Estate, Kobape, for staff.

The governor pointed out that appointing the five judges shows his administration's aim to boost the state's judicial capacity. He added that more judges have been appointed during his time than in past administrations.

He praised the Chief Judge for the new appointments and expressed hope that younger judges would bring fresh energy and long-term growth to the judiciary.

Abiodun reaffirmed his commitment to working together and respecting the separation of powers.

He also mentioned that the state judiciary has adopted an electronic affidavit platform. This step is expected to improve access to justice and service delivery.

He noted that this digital platform has processed over 31,000 affidavits. About 4,500 users and 25 agents are currently using it across the state.