Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Monday announced the Federal Government’s approval for the establishment of a Court of Appeal division in the state.

For decades, litigants and lawyers in Ogun had been compelled to travel to Ibadan, Oyo State, to pursue appellate matters, a situation that often created delays, added costs, and significant inconvenience.

Speaking during a church service at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to mark the commencement of the 2025/2026 legal year, Abiodun said the approval marked the fulfilment of a long-standing request by the state.

The governor urged members of the bar and bench to continue upholding integrity, stressing that justice cannot thrive without impartiality and courage.

“The judiciary remains the only place where the most vulnerable find a voice, and where every man, woman and child feels protected by the law,” he said.

Abiodun assured that his administration would sustain its support for the judiciary by providing resources to enhance judicial efficiency and uphold the sanctity of the legal system.

“As we continue to respect court orders and judgments, we will also continue to support the judiciary in ensuring equitable dispensation and efficient administration of justice in Ogun State,” he said.

Justice Dipeolu said it had been her long-held dream to see a Court of Appeal established in the state, adding that the development would greatly expand access to justice while easing the burden on litigants and lawyers. She pledged that the bar and bench would continue to dispense justice without fear or favour.

At a separate event at the Judiciary Complex, Kobape Road, Abeokuta, Justice Dipeolu presented awards and gifts to 20 outstanding judiciary staff and 16 retiring workers in recognition of their service.

Meanwhile, the Anglican Bishop of Ijebu-Southwest Diocese, Rt. Rev. Babatunde Ogunbanwo charged judicial officers to be courageous, confront systemic corruption, and resist the lure of power, wealth, and popularity.

Delivering a sermon from Micah 6:8 during the special service, the cleric said God requires the judiciary to “act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with Him,” stressing that justice is a daily duty, not a once-a-year ritual.

He cautioned that public trust in the legal system is fragile and must be rebuilt through fairness tempered with mercy, warning that a system without mercy becomes bitter. Ogunbanwo reminded judicial officers that their authority is a sacred trust and prayed that they remain accountable to God, the ultimate judge.