Kwara Governor Inaugurates Six New Judges, Announces Plans For Court Complex Construction.

CJ Commends Governors for Their Support in Strengthening the Judiciary

Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, demonstrated his commitment to the justice system by inaugurating six new judges for the state high court on Friday. During the ceremony held at the Government House in Ilorin, the governor urged the judges to carry out their duties diligently and with impartiality, prioritizing the best interests of both the community and national security.

The newly appointed judges are Ibijoke Olabisi Olawoyin, Fatimah Funsho Abdulrasaq, Oluwatosin Adenike Adeniyi, Yusuf Diko Adebayo, Olalekan Osuolale Ajayi, and Muritala Folohunsho.

Emphasizing the significance of the event, Abdulrazaq highlighted that this was the first time six judges were sworn in simultaneously in the state. He noted that a total of eleven high court judges have taken their oaths during his five-year tenure.

In his address, the governor congratulated the newly appointed judges and their families, emphasizing their responsibility to uphold justice and protect the rights of every citizen. He quoted Usman Dan Fodio, saying: “A kingdom can endure unbelief, but it cannot endure with injustice.”

Abdulrazaq also expressed his commitment to supporting the judiciary, citing the administration’s efforts in renovating and remodeling various courts in the state. The governor revealed plans for further improvements, including the construction of a new court complex to ensure the availability of suitable courtrooms.

The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Abiodun Ayodele Adebara, joined the governor in presenting new SUVs to the newly appointed judges. Abdulrazaq praised the collaborative approach between the executive and judicial branches, leading to timely payments of allowances and entitlements to judicial officers.

Expressing his appreciation for the cooperation between the different arms of government, Abdulrazaq emphasized the need for unity in the pursuit of a greater Kwara State and Nigeria.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, Commissioner for Women Affairs Afolashade Oluwakemi, Deputy Speaker Ojo Olayiwola Oyebode, and other government officials, as well as serving and retired judges. Royal fathers, representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association, and family members of the new judges also graced the occasion.

Justice Adebara, in his remarks, described the event as a milestone in the administration of justice in the state, bringing new perspectives and energy to the judiciary. He praised the governor’s dedication to the rule of law and expressed confidence that the additional judges would contribute to the speedy delivery of justice.

Speaking on behalf of the new judges, Justice Ibijoke expressed their commitment to upholding justice, fairness, and equity in their work. She thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for his prompt actions and allocation of resources, enabling the state to meet the requirements set by the National Judicial Council for their appointment.

Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, September 13, 2024