By Precious Oluwole
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the state judiciary as a critical pillar of governance and development, commending its unwavering commitment to justice over the past 50 years.
The governor made this remark on Tuesday at a special court session held at the Ondo State High Court, Akure, as part of activities marking the golden jubilee of the creation of the state.
Addressing the court, Aiyedatiwa said he was deeply honoured to participate in what he described as a historic session, noting that the anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices and vision of the state’s founding fathers.
He acknowledged the contributions of past leaders and patriots whose foresight, resilience and commitment, he said, laid a solid foundation that has sustained Ondo State as a place of unity, peace, progress and development.
According to the governor, the golden jubilee celebration goes beyond marking the passage of time, but represents five decades of courage, determination, faith and collective sacrifice by the people of the state.
He noted that the judiciary has remained the only unbroken institution since the creation of Ondo State, underscoring its central role in upholding the rule of law, justice and equity.
Aiyedatiwa also shared his personal experience with the judicial system, describing it as a testament to the impartiality and fairness of the courts.
“As your governor, I stand as living testimony of how an innocent individual can benefit from the rule of law and the impartiality of the judiciary,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to judicial independence, stressing that his government would continue to support reforms aimed at strengthening the justice system.
He disclosed plans to increase the number of judges in the state to enhance efficiency and improve access to justice, while pledging sustained collaboration with the judiciary to build a stronger and more prosperous institution.
Earlier, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo (SAN), highlighted the processes that led to the creation of Ondo State and urged members of the judiciary to remain steadfast in the fair dispensation of justice.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akure Branch, Umar Onimisi Friday (Esq.), commended the governor for his responsiveness to the needs of the legal community.
He appealed to the state government to fast-track the procurement of vehicles for magistrates to enhance mobility and speed up judicial processes.
The special court session was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Mr. Olamide Oladiji; former Governor of the state, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko; justices of the State High Court; APC chieftain, Olusola Oke (SAN); legal practitioners and other dignitaries.