By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has signed into law the amendment bill to increase the number of Judges in the State.

The historic event has now increased the numbers of judges in Ondo State from 24 to 35.

Speaking at the official signing ceremony, held at the Cocoa conference hall, Alagbaka, Akure, the State capital on Thursday, Governor Aiyedatiwa stated that the achievement is a testament to his administration’s dedication to strengthening the fabric of the society.

For the first time ever, since the creation of our State, we are increasing the number of judges in our Judiciary by 10! This invariably brings the total number of Judges in the Ondo State Judiciary to 35. It is indeed a momentous occasion that demonstrates our unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and the Rule of Law.

“We recognize that the judiciary is the backbone of our democracy, and by enhancing its capacity, we empower our citizens, foster a more just and equitable society and enhance the administration of justice in our dear State”.

He hailed the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Olamide Oladiji, other Honourable members of the House, the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Hon. Justice Segun Odusola and his associate Judges, the Attorney General and all other stakeholders for their untiring efforts to make the vision a reality. “Your patriotism, doggedness and expertise have yielded a triumph for our Sunshine State and its good people”, he added.

The Governor also saluted the leadership of Ondo State Judiciary for their commitment to independence, neutrality, impartiality and courage in carrying out the administration of justice and observance of the Rule of Law, stressing that they have demonstrated that they are indeed the last hope of the common man, even in moments of critical trials for Ondo
State.

“As I sign this Bill into Law today, we not only expand access to justice but also fortify the foundation of our democracy. By increasing the number of Judges, we are not only reducing the workload of the existing Judges, but also enabling the Judiciary to tackle backlog of cases. We equally ensure timely and faster administration of justice, thereby reducing congestion in our courts. We demonstrate that our State is a beacon of progress, where the rights and dignity of all citizens are cherished and protected.

“Let us celebrate this momentous occasion with pride, knowing that our collective efforts will resonate for generations to come. We must continue to work together to build a stronger, more efficient, and more effective judiciary that serves the needs of the people.

Earlier in his address, the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola noted that the signing of the Bill amending the High Court law by expanding the number of appointable judges, is not only a response to the growing demands on the judicial system but also a testament to Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to improving access to justice and enhancing the efficiency of the Courts.

“This occasion is significant in the sense that the 1978 Laws of Ondo State that prescribes the number of Judges appointable in the State to 24 which was reviewed in what is known today as the four volume compendium Laws of Ondo State 2006 never averted itself to the Section for an expansion of the number of Judges, which has been long
overdue.

“By this increase, Mr. Governor has reduced the work burden on our existing judges giving them more time for other cases and their health. This will surely reduce delays and result in more efficient disposition of cases”.

He added that the expansion will enable the Judges to tap into the tale talents of a diverse range of legal professionals, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the bench.

He appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa, stating that his continued effort to reposition the justice sector will have a lasting impact on the judicial system and
the lives of countless individuals who seek justice in their courts.

In his remarks, the Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji stated that in line with the power of the Ondo State House of Assembly, on the 11th of June, 2024, the House of Assembly considered the bill for a law to amend the provision of the Ondo State High court law, 2006 and for other matters incidental there to or connected there with.

He opined that the bill was passed on the 27th of June, 2024 after a thorough job of the House Committee on Judiciary, chaired Hon. Stephen Abitogun.

He stressed that the amended law will Facilitate reduction in the congestion of the correctional centers in the State, build the confidence of the public in the judiciary as cases brought will be treated with utmost dispatch.

The Speaker pledged that the state House of Assembly would continue to collaborate with the State government for the progress of the State.

In attendance were; The Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi, Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa, the Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Special Advisers, members of the State Executive council.