Ondo State Poised for Major Overhaul of Grassroots Justice as Governor Approves New JPs
27th November, 2025
Ondo State is set for a significant boost to its justice and peace architecture as Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa prepares to inaugurate a new class of Justices of the Peace (JPs) on Friday, 28th, following a comprehensive screening and approval process.
Among those to be formally decorated is Tayo Adu, the Southwest Heralds publisher and other prominent first-class monarchs, including His Royal Majesty, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III, the Olowo of Owo and Chairman of the Ondo State Council of Obas; Oba Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom; and Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, the Deji of Akure. Also shortlisted are heads of major security formations such as the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, the Commander of the Amotekun Corps, the State Comptroller of Immigration, the NSCDC State Commandant, and the Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, alongside diplomats, seasoned professionals, and respected community leaders.
Leading clerics also feature among the honourees, including the Founder and General Overseer of Agape Christian Ministries Worldwide, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Akoko, Rt. Revd. Jacob O. B. Bada, the Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji Abdulhakeem Yayi-Akorede, and other distinguished religious figures.
The inauguration, scheduled for the International Culture and Events Centre, The Dome, Akure, underscores the government’s renewed drive to expand access to justice, reinforce peace-building frameworks, and strengthen democratic governance at the grassroots. The selection of the appointees reflects their longstanding service, integrity, and influence within their constituencies—particularly in early dispute resolution and community mediation.
Justices of the Peace perform critical civic duties, including witnessing affidavits, attesting documents, acting as sureties, mediating minor conflicts, and fostering social cohesion. Their role enhances public trust in the justice system and ensures that essential services remain within reach of local communities.
This milestone event, the first JP inauguration in nearly twenty years, follows Governor Aiyedatiwa’s formal approval and a meticulous selection process led by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, SAN, OON. He explained that the Governor exercised his authority under the Magistrates’ Courts Law of Ondo State to appoint only individuals with proven integrity, sound judgment, and a strong commitment to community development.
Dr. Ajulo stated that a high-level vetting panel comprising technocrats and security representatives conducted rigorous background checks to ensure the credibility of nominees. He confirmed that successful candidates will receive their certificates at the ceremony, officially empowering them to discharge their statutory duties.
He added that the law permits the Governor to delegate certain Magistrate-related powers to JPs, particularly those connected to maintaining law and order, while excluding criminal trials and preliminary inquiries.
According to the Attorney General, all preparations for a dignified and historic inauguration are complete, with top government officials, royal fathers, security chiefs, legal experts, and key stakeholders expected to attend.
“This marks another decisive step in advancing Governor Aiyedatiwa’s vision for a progressive, just, and inclusive Ondo State where governance is closer to the people and the rule of law underpins societal harmony,” Dr. Ajulo said.
