FG Approves Court of Appeal in Abeokuta; Governor Abiodun Pledges Strong Support to Judiciary

The Federal Government has formally approved the establishment of a Division of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta, Ogun State’s capital, a landmark development aimed at enhancing the dispensation of justice in the region. This announcement was made by Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, during a special church service held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, to mark the commencement of the 2025/2026 legal year.

Governor Abiodun emphasized that the new Court of Appeal division will not only bring justice closer to the people of Ogun State but will also expedite judicial processes by reducing the heavy caseload currently overwhelming the Ibadan Division. “This approval is a tremendous achievement for our administration’s commitment to improving access to justice and addressing case backlogs. It marks an important step in strengthening Ogun State’s judiciary,” the governor stated.

He highlighted the critical role of an independent judiciary in fostering good governance, economic growth, and social stability, assuring judicial officers of continued governmental support. “We will prioritize the welfare of judicial officers posted to the new Court of Appeal division by providing adequate housing and essential resources to enable them deliver justice efficiently,” he pledged.

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Governor Abiodun also commended the State Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, for her impactful reforms that have repositioned the judiciary as a beacon of legal excellence in Nigeria. The governor urged judicial officers to uphold integrity, impartiality, and courage to ensure that justice remains accessible and fair to all citizens.

The service featured a sermon by the Rt. Rev’d Babatunde Ogunbanwo, Bishop of Ijebuland South/West Diocese, who described the judiciary as the most powerful arm of government. Bishop Ogunbanwo called on judges to balance firmness with mercy in their rulings and to remain fearless in confronting injustices within the legal system.

The establishment of the Court of Appeal in Abeokuta is expected to significantly ease the backlog of cases and boost the timely resolution of appeals emanating from Ogun State, particularly in commercial, civil, and criminal matters, thereby enhancing overall judicial efficiency.