Kwara Commissions New High Court in Ajase-Ipo to Deepen Grassroots Justice
The Kwara State Government on Wednesday commissioned the High Court Complex, Ajase-Ipo Division, and performed the foundation-laying for the Upper Area Court, in a move to bring justice closer to the people at the grassroots.
The Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr. Kayode Alabi, said the commissioning goes beyond the inauguration of a physical structure.
According to him, the project is “a celebration of responsible leadership, community service and a shared commitment to justice and development.”
Governor AbdulRazaq reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the administration of justice, citing the approval of additional High Court Judges and Khadis of the Sharia Court of Appeal to ensure speedy dispensation of justice.
He stressed that judicial independence must be upheld and that access to justice must remain equal for all citizens irrespective of status.
The High Court Complex and Oaths Registry were donated by the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, His Royal Majesty, Oba Alhaji Ismail Bolaji Yahaya Muhammed Atoloye Alebiosu, who is also a legal practitioner. The project, initiated and foundation-laid in 2024, was completed within one year.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Kwara State, Hon. Justice Abiodun Ayodele Adebara, described the development as a significant milestone in efforts to improve judicial infrastructure and enhance access to justice across the state.
Justice Adebara announced that a High Court Judge and support staff have been deployed to the new division, adding that full judicial operations will commence on the first working day of November 2026.
He also disclosed that the five-storey Court House under construction in Ilorin, comprising twelve courtrooms and judges’ chambers, will be completed and commissioned before May 29, 2027, as assured by the Governor.
The Chief Judge called on traditional rulers, members of the Bar, philanthropists and community leaders to partner with the Judiciary in building and equipping court facilities, noting that the responsibility cannot rest on government alone.
On his part, the Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen, who represented the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Senior Ibrahim Sulyman, SAN, said robust judicial infrastructure remains the bedrock of peace, law and order and economic development.
The Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Alebiosu, thanked the state government for its developmental strides and appreciated dignitaries who graced the occasion.
The ceremony, which featured cultural displays by the Kwara State Council for Arts and Culture, climaxed with the presentation of a Distinguished Service Award to the Olupo by the Kwara State Judiciary, in recognition of his contribution to justice delivery.