By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa on Friday, flagged off the construction of new high court complex in Akure, the State capital.

Addressing the auspicious gathering, Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that the gigantic project is the actualisation of the dream and vision of late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON, stressing that it was his wish to provide a conducive office accommodation for the administration of justice in Ondo State, considering the workload of the Judiciary.

“He desired a state-of-the-art High Court Complex, properly called. We will continue to celebrate his legacies and honour him for his numerous contributions to our dear State”.

According to the Governor, the State is embarking on this project at this time not because it’s too buoyant financially but because of its commitment to providing a good working environment with modern facilities that will enhance the welfare of the judicial officers and workers and the people seeking justice with the overall aim of speeding up the dispensation of justice in Ondo State.

“The role of the Judicial Arm of Government in any democratic setting cannot be overemphasised as it is saddled with the duty to interpret the law and dispense justice fairly and impartially, ensuring the protection of individual rights and maintaining social order and accountability. This is one of the reasons that prompted our decision to embark on the construction of this befitting Judiciary Village in Akure, the State Capital”.

The Governor opined that the New High Court Complex would involve many projects in one with the following components; Ceremonial Court, Modular Courts, Registry and Library, Infrastructure Networks, Exhibition Buildings, External Electrification, Utility Building, Parking and Accessibility Features.

“Government has succeeded in ensuring all necessary steps have been followed towards the actualisation of this laudable project. So far so good, the project has successfully been awarded to Messrs Westfield Global Construction Company, a competent contractor who is expected to deliver the project within 48 weeks, all things being equal.

“I am glad to say that our administration has been embarking on many programmes and projects that are targeted at enhancing the quality of life of judicial officers and public servants in the State”.

Governor Aiyedatiwa named the new high court complex “Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu Judiciary Complex”, after his late boss.

Earlier in his address, the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola noted that the construction of the complex is a testament to government’s commitment to providing a purpose-built complex for the administration of justice in Ondo State.

He added that the Governor is not just building a physical structure but he is laying the groundwork for a brighter future for the judiciary, the administration of justice, the legal profession, the people of Ondo State and the entire humanity to seamlessly assess justice.

“The proposed cycle complex is going to be a state-of-the-art facility equipped with modern amenities that will compare to what you can find anywhere in the world.

“The building is designed to accommodate digitalization of the administration of justice in tune with modern trends in the delivery of justice across the world. It will also provide a very conducive and secure environment for judges, lawyers, staff, litigants and all stakeholders”.

“It is therefore gratifying that his excellency made it a priority to make this dream a reality. It will help in no small measure to bring the administration of justice in Ondo State to international best standards. This definitely will contribute to the overall development of Ondo State since the administration of justice is very essential to business, peace and security.

Odusola appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa and all stakeholders who have contributed to the realization of the project. It is our hope that the current administration led by his excellency shall continue to extend all the needed assistance to the judiciary. As we move forward with the construction of this complex.

He urged everyone involved to remain committed to the highest standard of excellence and work together to create a judiciary that will be a source of pride to the people of Ondo State in particular and Nigeria in general.

In his goodwill message, the Chairman, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Akure branch, Onimisi Umar, appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for building the legacy of his former boss, pleading that the project will not suffer any form of delay.

“MBA Akure considers this as an epoch-making event. It is so because it is happening in our time and of course the administration of justice is said to receive a boost in Ondo State”.

Also speaking, the Attorney General and Commisoner for Justice in Ondo State, Dr Olukayode Ajulo stated that the construction stands as a testament of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to cultivating a fair and just society, where the rights of every citizen are not just recognized, but actively upheld.

“This is crucial for nurturing peace and order, reinforcing the understanding that a robust judiciary is the backbone of a democracy. Therefore, as we embark on this vital project, Let us actively and actively aware of the judicial essential roles in maintaining society harmony.

“With this new complex, we enhance our legal system capacity to deliver sweet and impartial justice, ensuring that the law serves all citizens equitably”.

Ajulo congratulated the Chief Judge and other law lords, urging them and all stakeholders to collaborate harmoniously to ensure the timely and exemplary completion of this complex.

The event held at Judiciary village, Akure had in attendance; Members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, members of the judiciary service commission, top government officials, among others.