The Kwara State Government has commissioned a new High Court Complex in Ajase-Ipo, Irepodun Local Government Area, and laid the foundation for an Upper Area Court as part of efforts to strengthen judicial infrastructure and improve access to justice across the state.

Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who was represented by his Deputy, Kayode Alabi, performed the commissioning ceremony on Wednesday alongside the Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Ayodele Adebara.

The newly commissioned High Court Complex, which includes an Oaths Registry, was donated to the Kwara State Judiciary by the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Alhaji Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Muhammed Atoloye Alebiosu, a legal practitioner.

The project, whose foundation was laid in 2024, was completed within one year and handed over to the judiciary to facilitate the administration of justice in Ajase-Ipo and surrounding communities.

The ceremony also featured the laying of the foundation for an Upper Area Court in Ajase-Ipo, further demonstrating efforts to expand judicial services within Irepodun Local Government Area.

Delivering the Governor’s address, Deputy Governor Alabi described the occasion as a celebration of responsible leadership, community service and a shared commitment to justice and development.

AbdulRazaq commended the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo for his contribution to judicial infrastructure, describing the intervention as an example of the role traditional institutions and community leaders can play in supporting government development initiatives.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the administration of justice across Kwara State through improved infrastructure, adequate personnel and institutional support.

He disclosed that his administration had approved the appointment of additional High Court judges and Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal to accelerate the disposal of cases and improve the efficiency of judicial proceedings.

AbdulRazaq also emphasised the importance of preserving judicial independence and ensuring that every citizen, regardless of social or economic status, has equal access to justice.

“An effective justice system requires more than buildings. It requires competent personnel, adequate facilities, efficient processes and unwavering adherence to professional ethics,” the Governor stated through his Deputy.

He maintained that investments in judicial infrastructure must be complemented by the availability of qualified personnel, efficient court procedures and strict compliance with professional standards.

The Governor further acknowledged the contributions of traditional institutions to governance and community development, describing them as important partners in promoting peace, justice and social progress.

In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Ayodele Adebara, described the commissioning of the Ajase-Ipo High Court Complex as a major milestone in the expansion of judicial infrastructure and access to justice in the state.

Justice Adebara announced that a High Court judge and supporting staff had already been posted to the newly commissioned facility to ensure that judicial activities commence without unnecessary delay.

According to him, the court is scheduled to begin operations on the first working day of November 2026.

The Chief Judge explained that the deployment of judicial personnel to the facility would enable residents of Ajase-Ipo and neighbouring communities to access High Court services more conveniently.

He also commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his administration’s continued investment in the development of judicial infrastructure across Kwara State.

Justice Adebara specifically acknowledged the ongoing construction of a five-storey courthouse in Ilorin, which is designed to accommodate 12 courtrooms.

He expressed confidence that the project would be completed before May 29, 2027, further expanding the capacity of the state judiciary to handle cases and improve judicial service delivery.

The Chief Judge also appealed to private individuals, community leaders, legal practitioners and members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to support the development of judicial infrastructure.

He maintained that collaboration between government, the legal profession and private stakeholders would help provide adequate facilities for the effective administration of justice.

In recognition of his contribution to the development of the judiciary, the Kwara State Judiciary presented a Distinguished Service Award to the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo.

The award acknowledged the monarch’s role in providing the High Court Complex and Oaths Registry for the benefit of the judiciary and the wider community.

Speaking on behalf of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Ibrahim Sulyman, SAN, the Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, emphasised the importance of accessible judicial institutions in maintaining peace and promoting development.

He explained that the availability of functional courts strengthens public confidence in the justice system and contributes to the maintenance of law and order.

Justice Kamaldeen further noted that an effective judicial system provides an enabling environment for economic activities by ensuring that disputes can be resolved through established legal processes.

In his response, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Alhaji Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Muhammed Atoloye Alebiosu, expressed appreciation to the Kwara State Government for its developmental efforts and continued support for the community.

The monarch thanked the Governor, the Chief Judge, members of the judiciary and other dignitaries who attended the commissioning ceremony.

He also acknowledged the presence of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, members of the Nigerian Bar Association and traditional rulers who participated in the event.

The ceremony featured cultural performances by the Kwara State Council for Arts and Culture, as well as goodwill messages from stakeholders.

The commissioning of the Ajase-Ipo High Court Complex and the foundation-laying ceremony for the Upper Area Court are expected to strengthen judicial services in the area, reduce the difficulties associated with accessing court facilities and support the administration of justice in Kwara State.

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