The Ekiti State Government has commissioned a new Customary Court edifice in Imesi Ekiti, reinforcing its commitment to radical improvements in the judiciary system, particularly for citizens at the grassroots level.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Friday, coincided with the Fifth Coronation Anniversary of the Onimesi of Imesi, His Royal Highness, Oba Olatunji Olatunde.
Speaking at the event, Justice Mojisola Abodunde, President of the Customary Court of Appeal in Ekiti State, commended Governor Oyebanji for his dedication to strengthening the customary court system across the state.
Justice Abodunde highlighted the significance of the new facility, stating, "The Customary Court remains an essential part of the judicial system. It is the first and closest to the citizens in settling issues of succession and inheritance, boundary disputes, marriages, resolution of matrimonial issues, tenancy agreements, defamation and other personal issues in relation with the Customary Laws."
She further explained that the court would handle matters including "child custody and maintenance and criminal offences created by the Local Government bye-laws, such as sanitation, environmental and market related infractions."
Bringing Justice Closer to the People
Oba Olatunde expressed gratitude to his chiefs and subjects, both local and in diaspora, for their support in achieving this milestone. He emphasized that the customary court would help prevent cases of jungle justice, self-help, and lawlessness in his kingdom.
"This commissioning comes at a most auspicious time, when there is an urgent and growing need to bring justice closer to the grassroots," the monarch stated. "We particularly commend the Ekiti State Government for the giant strides it has taken in revitalizing the traditional justice system, especially through the activation of palace courts."
The Onimesi further noted that ongoing legislative efforts aimed at empowering these courts would bolster the effectiveness of grassroots justice delivery, potentially decongesting higher courts and expediting the administration of justice across the state.
"Once these frameworks are fully in place and harmonized, the dangerous trend of resorting to self-help or jungle justice, with all its attendant social and human costs will be greatly diminished, if not entirely eradicated," he added.
The monarch assured that the palace would provide full cooperation and support to the newly established court, describing it as "a symbol of justice, order, and peace."
This development represents a significant step in Ekiti State's ongoing efforts to reform its judicial system and ensure that justice is accessible to all citizens, regardless of their location or social status.
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