Ondo Governor Inaugurates 130 New Justices of the Peace to Boost Prompt Justice Delivery

By Nosa Ekhator

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has approved the appointment of 130 new Justices of the Peace (JPs) and formally inaugurated the body after a 17‑year hiatus, giving citizens an active role in local justice delivery.

The inauguration took place on Friday, 28 November 2025 at the State Governor’s Office, Akure, with the State Attorney‑General and Commissioner of Justice, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, and the Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, in attendance.

In his address, Governor Aiyedatiwa described the occasion as a turning point for grassroots justice system, “in consonance with the Order, Security and the Rule of Law, which is the first component of our ‘OUR EASE’ agenda.” He reminded the new JPs that their office is a “sacred responsibility” that demands integrity, wisdom, decorum and fairness, and assured them of government support as they mediate disputes, maintain social order and promote community harmony.

Highlighting broader judicial reforms, the Governor noted the recruitment of additional state counsels, the expansion of the judiciary and the near‑completion of a new Judiciary Complex that will include a ceremonial court, modular courts and a library—all aimed at speeding up justice delivery.

Attorney‑General Ajulo recalled that Ondo last appointed JPs in 2008 and explained that the office serves as a crucial link between government and communities. He outlined the statutory powers under Section 12 of the Magistrates’ Court Law, which enable JPs to preserve peace, quell disturbances and seek assistance when necessary. He said appointees were selected on the basis of merit, moral standing, integrity, humility and a commitment to peaceful conduct.

Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola, represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath and detailed the JPs’ functions. He described the role as “legal and quasi‑judicial,” and instructed the new JPs to consult their handbook, which covers duties such as mediating disputes, maintaining public order, administering oaths, visiting detention facilities, inspecting conditions, handling detainees’ complaints, certifying documents and supporting official processes for visas, passports and other legal matters. He also stressed community obligations, including assisting local policing, guiding youth groups, advising community leaders and preventing conflicts.

On behalf of the appointees, Bashorun ‘Seinde Arogbofa expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and pledged the JPs’ commitment to promoting justice and peace across the state. He highlighted the historic nature of the appointment and called for inclusivity, especially the involvement of rural communities, urging all stakeholders to work together to realise the goals of peace, justice and community development.

Among those sworn in were Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; traditional rulers such as Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III (Olowo of Owo), Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi (Odundun II, Deji of Akure) and Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo (Osemawe of Ondo); senior security officials, including the State Commissioner of Police, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps, the State Comptroller of Immigration, the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Brigadier Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, Owena Cantonment, Akure; as well as religious leaders such as Bishop Felix Adejumo (Agape Christian Ministries), Rt. Rev. Jacob O. B. Bada (Anglican Diocese of Akoko) and Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi‑Akorede (Chief Imam of Akure).

The inauguration underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law and enhancing the efficiency of justice delivery at the grassroots level in Ondo State.

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