By Joy Akinsanya
The Chief Judge of Ogun, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, on Wednesday inaugurated a Multi-Door Courthouse in Idi-Oke/Igbesa, to enhance access to justice and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Dipeolu said the facility was donated by Oba Saheed Odusanya to mark his 10th coronation anniversary.
Dipeolu said that the facility would provide residents, businesses and investors with efficient, affordable and timely mechanisms for resolving disputes without resorting to prolonged litigation.
She explained that the multi-door courthouse offered various dispute resolution options, including mediation, conciliation, arbitration and negotiation, aimed at reducing the burden of prolonged litigation.
She noted that not all disputes needed a trial, adding that amicable settlements preserved relationships and fostered harmony more than long court battles.
“The objective is simple: to resolve disputes quickly, fairly and efficiently while reducing the emotional and financial burden often associated with prolonged litigation,” she said.
The CJ noted that the Igbesa, Agbara and Idi-Oke axis had become one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing industrial and commercial corridors, making the presence of a modern dispute resolution centre imperative.
“This is not merely an investment in justice. It is an investment in economic development and community peace,” she said.
Dipeolu, however, commended the traditional ruler for his sustained support for the administration of justice, noting that he had previously donated the Idi-Oke/Igbesa Magistrates’ Court and two High Court buildings in the area.
“Today is a day of celebration, gratitude and reflection. We are gathered here not merely to commission a building, but to celebrate a vision.
”A vision that justice should not only be available but should also be accessible, affordable, timely and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said.
Dipeolu described the traditional ruler’s contributions as a demonstration of commitment to peace and the administration of justice.
She noted that the project was an example of successful collaboration among the judiciary, traditional institutions and communities in strengthening justice delivery.
The chief judge also disclosed that the sixth Ogun Multi-Door Courthouse, located in Ilaro, was ready for inauguration as part of efforts to expand ADR services across the state.
She urged residents and stakeholders to make effective use of the facility in promoting peaceful settlement of disputes and community harmony.
In a goodwill message, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Ogun Multi-Door Courthouse, Justice Solomon Olugbemi, described the facility as a significant milestone in expanding access to justice through ADR.
He said the courthouse would provide faster, cost-effective and mutually beneficial means of resolving disputes while promoting harmony and preserving relationships.
Olugbemi commended the Chief Judge, the Olu of Idi-Oke, Oba Odusanya, and other stakeholders for their roles in the successful delivery of the project.
Earlier, in his remarks, Oba Odusanya, appreciated the Chief Judge, for her unwavering support toward the establishment of the multi-door courthouse in the area.
The traditional ruler said the purpose-built facility was donated to commemorate his 10th coronation anniversary and to further enhance access to justice and peaceful dispute resolution in the community.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yetunde Fatungase