Ogun Chief Judge Commissions Multi-Door Courthouse Donated by Olu of Idi-Oke

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, on Wednesday commissioned a purpose-built Multi-Door Courthouse in Idi-Oke/Igbesa, Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government Area, describing the project as a significant step towards enhancing access to justice and promoting peaceful dispute resolution.

The facility was donated by the Olu of Idi-Oke Kingdom, Oba Saheed Ifalohun Odusanya, as part of activities marking his 10th coronation anniversary.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Justice Dipeolu commended the monarch for what she described as a rare and commendable commitment to strengthening institutions of justice and community development.

According to her, the project represents more than the construction of a building, noting that it embodies a vision where justice is accessible, affordable, timely, and responsive to the needs of the people.

She praised the monarch’s dedication to promoting peace and justice, stating that while many traditional rulers focus on building palaces, markets, and other physical infrastructure, few choose to invest in institutions that guarantee social harmony and the rule of law.

Justice Dipeolu recalled the monarch’s longstanding support for the judiciary, noting that the Idi-Oke/Igbesa Magistrates’ Court was commissioned through Oba Odusanya’s efforts in June 2020, while High Court I and High Court II were established in 2021 and 2023 respectively.

She further disclosed that the Multi-Door Courthouse initially operated as a temporary facility within the Magistrates’ Court premises following its commissioning in November 2021 before being relocated to its newly completed purpose-built structure.

“This achievement speaks volumes about the foresight, commitment, and public spirit of Kabiyesi. This 10th Coronation Anniversary will be remembered not only for celebration but also for strengthening access to justice in Ogun State,” she said.

The Chief Judge explained that the Multi-Door Courthouse concept was designed to provide alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, stressing that not every dispute requires lengthy court proceedings.

She noted that mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and negotiation often provide more effective and mutually beneficial outcomes by preserving relationships and fostering understanding between parties.

Quoting former United States President Abraham Lincoln, Justice Dipeolu urged residents to embrace amicable dispute resolution, saying, “Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbours to compromise whenever you can.”

She also highlighted the strategic importance of the facility’s location within the rapidly expanding Igbesa-Agbara-Idi-Oke industrial corridor, one of the fastest-growing commercial hubs in the country.

According to her, the courthouse will serve businesses, investors, institutions, and residents within the axis by providing efficient and modern dispute resolution services that support economic growth and social stability.

“This is not merely an investment in justice; it is an investment in economic development and community peace,” she stated.

Justice Dipeolu described the project as a shining example of public-private-community partnership and called on other communities across Ogun State to emulate the initiative in support of the administration of justice.

She also revealed that the sixth Multi-Door Courthouse in Ogun State, located in Ilaro, is ready for commissioning, reflecting the state’s continued commitment to expanding alternative dispute resolution services.

“Our vision is simple: every citizen of Ogun State should have access to efficient, affordable, and effective dispute resolution services regardless of location,” she said.

The Chief Judge, however, emphasized that the success of the facility would depend on the quality of services rendered by those managing it.

“Buildings alone do not dispense justice. People do. The true value of this courthouse will depend on the quality of service rendered within its walls,” she added.

Multi-Door Courthouses are specialised centres that provide alternative dispute resolution services, including mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and negotiation, offering litigants faster and less adversarial alternatives to conventional court processes.This version is structured in a professional newspaper format with a strong headline, lead, balanced reporting, and clear attribution suitable for publication in print and online media.