Daud Olatunji
The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Mosunmola Arinola Dipeolu, on Thursday unveiled an electronic affidavit platform and a new Multi-Door Courthouse Practice Direction as part of sweeping reforms to modernise justice delivery in the state.
Speaking at the Ogun State Judiciary at 50 public lecture and the launch of the commemorative book “Ogun State Judiciary at 50” and the 2026 Staff Manual, held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Dipeolu said the judiciary must evolve to meet rising public expectations and technological realities.
She described the Golden Jubilee as “a measure of institutional growth, sacrifice and enduring faith in the rule of law,” noting that the judiciary had remained the “moral spine of governance” since the creation of the state on February 3, 1976.
In a major highlight of the event, the Chief Judge formally introduced the e-affidavit platform, which enables electronic processing and authentication of affidavits.
According to her, the innovation will simplify procedures, reduce delays and enhance transparency in service delivery.
“Justice must be accessible, timely and credible. By leveraging technology, we are aligning with global best practices and making our services more responsive to the needs of our people,” she said, urging members of the Bar and the public to embrace the platform.
Dipeolu also unveiled the Ogun State Multi-Door Courthouse Practice Direction 2026, aimed at strengthening alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.
She disclosed that the Multi-Door Courthouse, established during the tenure of former Chief Judge, O. O. Olopade, with pioneer centres in Abeokuta and Ijebu-Ode, has now expanded to five functional centres across the state.
She added that a sixth centre in Ilaro was ready for commissioning, while a seventh centre at Idi-Oke was nearing completion.
The Chief Judge said the commemorative volume being launched was more than a ceremonial publication, describing it as a repository of institutional memory documenting leadership eras, structural expansion, procedural reforms and technological transformation over five decades.
“Institutions do not function on goodwill alone. They require clear standards and structured accountability,” she said, explaining that the 2026 Staff Manual was introduced to strengthen professionalism, discipline and operational clarity within the judiciary.
Dipeolu paid glowing tribute to past Chief Judges, including E. B. Craig, O. O. Odunlami, I. B. Delano, O. O. Somolu, C. O. Jacobs, and Olopade, noting that they guided the institution through phases of foundation, consolidation, expansion and modern reform.
She said awards would be presented to living pioneers, past Chief Judges and former Attorneys-General in recognition of their contributions to strengthening justice administration in the state.
While acknowledging the support of the executive arm led by Governor Dapo Abiodun, as well as the legislature under Speaker Oludaisi Elemide, Dipeolu emphasised that the judiciary’s most valuable asset remained public confidence.
Quoting notable jurists and scholars, she stressed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, warning that integrity, impartiality and transparency must continue to guide judicial conduct.
“As we look ahead, the next fifty years will demand greater dedication, innovation and courage.
“The judiciary is sustained not by buildings alone, but by men and women who choose integrity over convenience and justice over expediency,” she said.
Dipeolu added that ongoing reforms, including expansion of judicial divisions, digital filing systems, virtual proceedings and continuous capacity development for judicial officers, were designed to ensure that justice in Ogun State remains efficient and people-centred.
The event drew top government functionaries, judicial officers, senior advocates, traditional rulers and members of the Nigerian Bar Association, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Ogun State Judiciary.
In his remarks, the state Governor, Dapo Abiodun, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening judicial independence, infrastructure and welfare, as the Ogun State Judiciary marked its Golden Jubilee.
Abiodun, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, described the milestone as a testament to “integrity, courage and unwavering commitment to justice.”
The governor commended the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Mosunmola Arinola Dipeolu, as well as serving and retired judges, magistrates and members of the Bar, for sustaining the rule of law in the state over the past five decades.
“Fifty years is not just a passage of time; it reflects institutional integrity and public trust. The judiciary has shaped the conscience of our state and upheld constitutional order,” he said.
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