By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
Ogun State has received official approval to establish its own division of the Court of Appeal, a development Governor Dapo Abiodun described as a historic achievement for the state.
Governor Abiodun made this known on Monday during a special church service to usher in the 2025/2026 legal year. The service was held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, in Abeokuta, the state capital.
According to the governor, the establishment of the appellate court division will further strengthen the judicial process and enhance the administration of justice in the state.
He emphasized that his administration remains committed to providing the enabling environment for the judiciary to function effectively and deliver justice without fear or favor.
“This very auspicious occasion gives me the pleasure to announce that Ogun State has finally secured the formal approval for the establishment of its own Division of the Federal Court of Appeal,” the governor declared.
Abiodun added that his government would continue to respect court orders and judgments while also offering every necessary support to ensure justice is served equitably and efficiently.
The governor highlighted that recent appointments of new judges in the state judiciary underscore his administration’s dedication to making the dividends of justice accessible to the people.
He wished judicial officers a fruitful new legal year, stressing that the season is not just ceremonial but also a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure justice is never delayed, denied, or compromised.
In her response, the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, expressed delight over the approval, describing it as the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream.
Justice Dipeolu explained that more than 85 percent of appeal cases involving Ogun State had always been heard in Ibadan, making it difficult for litigants and lawyers who had to travel long distances.
She revealed that establishing the appellate court in Ogun would ease the burden on both legal practitioners and citizens, while also helping to decongest the Ibadan Division of the Court of Appeal.
The Chief Judge recalled that one of her prayers since assuming office was for Ogun to have its own appellate court. She praised Governor Abiodun for supporting the idea and following it through until approval was secured.
“The benefit is enormous,” she noted. “Our people will no longer have to travel to Ibadan for their appeal cases, and the Ibadan Division will be decongested, which is a great relief for everyone.
