OYO JUDICIARY APPOINTS EIGHT GRADE A CUSTOMARY COURT PRESIDENTS

 

As part of efforts to fast track the dispensation of justice, the Oyo State judiciary has sworn-in eight newly-appointed presidents of Grade A customary courts in the state, who will serve as the first legal filter to cases coming from the courts and will be handling matrimonial and customary land matters that fall within their jurisdictions.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabode Yerima, stated that with the appointment of more qualified legal practitioners as presidents, customary court Grade ‘A’, she is confident that the judicial arm of government would be able to discharge adequately it's statutory responsibilities to the common man.

According to Justice Yerima,“this will go a long way to fast track the dispensation of justice, especially at the grassroot level. 

It is pertinent to appreciate the responsibility of an independent judiciary to good governance, good neighbourliness and the protection of the helpless. 

I charge you to hit the ground running immediately in order to put the customary court track in the quick dispensation of justice.

Remember the scales of justice are balanced and it is your duty to ensure they remain so. 

Treat each case with utmost care and consideration regardless of its magnitude,” she said.

The Chief Judge, however, warned that none of them must be absent from their duty posts, stressing that “wherever you are posted, you are bound to be there everyday from Monday to Friday and no excuse will be taken. 

The Oyo judiciary will no longer tolerate indiscipline. 

“Exercise your authority with fairness, impartiality, honour and utmost integrity.

Your appointment is a testament to your dedication, knowledge and commitment to justice. 

Embrace challenges that lie ahead with courage and determination, knowing that you have the support and trust of your colleagues and the judiciary.

May you uphold the principles of justice, preserve the rule of law and serve our communities with honor and integrity,” she added.

In his goodwill message, the Oyo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, asked the newly-appointed presidents of customary courts Grade ‘A’ to “tackle justice effectively at the grassroot so that the people will have quicker and direct access to justice delivery because the grassroots is important in every society and also uphold the tenets of the law.