The Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, on Thursday commissioned a new High Court division in Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, describing the development as a deliberate step toward decentralizing judicial services and enhancing access to justice for residents.
At the inauguration ceremony held at the judiciary’s newest outpost, Justice Alogba emphasized the daily challenges faced by litigants and legal practitioners who must endure long commutes and Lagos’ infamous traffic congestion to attend court sessions.
“Imagine a man who leaves home by 6:30 a.m. for a 9 a.m. sitting but arrives late and misses his case. In criminal matters, this could lead to a bench warrant. That’s how justice eludes the common man,” the Chief Judge remarked.
Justice Alogba stated that the previous practice of clustering over 20 courtrooms in a single complex had become unsustainable. He explained that bringing courts closer to the people would not only reduce hardship but also uphold the principle of fair and timely adjudication.
He commended the Chairman of Amuwo Odofin Local Government, Mr. Valentine Buraimoh, and the local chapter of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for their foresight and collaboration in making the court project a reality.
“This facility bridges a critical gap between Apapa and Badagry. It is a strategic addition to our infrastructure and a demonstration of what can be achieved through unity of purpose,” the Chief Judge stated.
Addressing members of the Bar, Justice Alogba also called for integrity and professionalism in legal practice. He warned against frivolous applications and cautioned against treating the court as a “betting ground.”
“Clients must stop seeing the courts as places for chance. Lawyers must advise their clients honestly and ethically. That is how we earn respect—and better fees,” he said.
In his remarks, Council Chairman Mr. Valentine Buraimoh described the court’s opening as a landmark development for the community’s justice system, saying it would reduce barriers to justice and strengthen public confidence in the rule of law.
“This court is a beacon of hope. It represents equity, peace, and the beginning of a more responsive judicial system for our people,” Buraimoh said, pledging continued support for the judiciary and other governance institutions.
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Amuwo Odofin Lawyers’ Forum, Mr. Chris Aghaonu, commended the state judiciary and government for establishing both Magistrate and High Court divisions in the area, calling it “a new dawn for grassroots justice delivery.”
The event which was held at the premises of the new court complex at 41 Road, Festac Town, was well attended by senior judicial officers, government officials, and legal practitioners, all of whom hailed the project as a timely investment in Lagos State’s legal infrastructure and a major step forward in bringing justice closer to the people.
