Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has stressed the need for a just and inclusive society where governance is brought closer to the grassroots and the rule of law is upheld.
He said this in Akure, the Ondo State capital while inaugurating over 120 new Justices of the Peace (JPs).
The new appointees included traditional rulers, religious leaders, heads of security agencies, political figures, professionals, and other well-meaning Nigerians with distinguished records of community service.
Among them were the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, the Deji of Akure, HRM Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; the Osemawe of Ondo, HRM Oba Victor Kiladejo; Bishop Felix Adejumo; Maj. Gen. Dayo Olukoju (Rtd.); and elder stateman, Chief Seinde Arogbofa.
The inauguration came 17 years after the last set of JPs were appointed in Ondo State by the state government.
Aiyedatiwa said the inauguration of the JPs demonstrated his administration’s commitment to accessible and effective justice.
He noted that the appointment of the JPs marked a significant step towards strengthening grassroots justice and reinforcing the rule of law in the state.
The Governor praised the Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo (SAN), as a man of ideas and for reawakening the JP Award initiative, which was last done in 2008.
Speaking at the occasion, Ajulo said the selection of the JPs sign-posted Aiyedatiwa’s administration’s firm resolve to cultivate an environment where the rule of law reigns supreme in all government affairs.
Ajulo, whose ministry supervised the selection of the appointees, explained the crucial role Justices of the Peace play in society, saying that they serve as a bridge between the government and the people in their various communities, attesting documents, witnessing affidavits, mediating disputes, standing as guarantors and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“Their presence helps foster civic responsibility and ensures quicker access to basic justice, particularly at the local level,” he added.
On his part, Iba Adams said he was honoured to have been selected for the special role.
“This is another call to service at a uniquely different level. And I am delighted that it has come from my state,” he said.
The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Aiyedun Olusola, who was represented by Justice Akintan Osadebe, administered the oath of allegiance on the appointees.
She listed some of the functions of the appointees to include judicial/quasi-judicial, admistrative, community, social welfare and oversight.
