Ogun State to Get New Appeal Court Division, Boosting Justice and Business Climate
In a landmark decision for Nigeria’s judicial landscape, the President of the Court of Appeal has approved the establishment of a new division in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Governor Dapo Abiodun hailed the move as a transformative step that will deepen justice delivery and significantly strengthen the state’s economic environment.
A Visionary Step for Judicial Accessibility
Governor Abiodun expressed profound gratitude to the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, for what he described as a “visionary and pragmatic” approval. He noted that the decision recognizes Ogun State’s strategic importance and demonstrates an exceptional understanding of the challenges posed by its growing judicial workload.
“Her leadership has brought renewed vigour to the appellate system,” Abiodun stated during the State Treasury Board Meeting for the 2025–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework. “This decision reflects a deep commitment to justice, fairness, and accessibility.”
Laying the Groundwork for Swift Justice
The governor confirmed that the state government had meticulously met all requirements set by the Court of Appeal for the new division. From providing land to ensuring infrastructure readiness, the administration deliberately fulfilled every necessary condition, understanding the immense value the institution brings to both the justice system and the state’s economy.
Abiodun stressed that the new court would not only bring justice closer to the people but also play a pivotal role in enhancing investor confidence and promoting sustainable economic growth. The project is seen as a major pillar in the state’s Ease of Doing Business Index and a significant enabler of commercial activity.
Addressing a Critical Need
The urgency for a local division becomes clear when examining the caseload. Astonishingly, about 75 per cent of appeal cases handled by the Ibadan Division originate from Ogun State. This made it imperative to have a division in Abeokuta where business and commercial disputes can be resolved expeditiously, giving investors greater confidence to commit capital to the state.
“When businesses know that commercial disputes can be settled fairly and without interminable delay, they are far more likely to invest,” the governor explained, highlighting the direct link between judicial efficiency and economic development.
Immediate Action and Future Impact
With the site for the new Court of Appeal complex already secured adjacent to the Judiciary Complex along Kobape Road in Abeokuta, the state government is wasting no time. Construction will commence immediately, with the administration opting not to wait for federal funding.
Abiodun committed to financing the project pending future reimbursement, ensuring the court would be completed and fully operational before the end of his tenure. This decisive action underscores the project’s priority status within his administration’s agenda.
A Legacy of Collaboration
The governor also commended the Ogun State judiciary for its steadfast cooperation and professionalism, describing it as “the last hope of the common man” and a vital partner in the state’s progress. He reaffirmed his commitment to providing the judiciary with the best working environment and support, noting that the synergy between executive and judicial arms has been crucial to his administration’s successes.
This establishment of the Abeokuta Division represents both a judicial and governance milestone, aligning perfectly with the administration’s commitment to institutional reform, equitable governance, and economic development. It stands as a legacy project symbolizing collaboration between the federal judiciary and the Ogun State Government.
The governor concluded with a powerful vision: the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal will revolutionize justice delivery in Ogun State, reducing delays and making justice swifter, fairer, and more accessible for all citizens while reinforcing confidence in governance and the rule of law.
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