Ondo State on Friday witnessed the revival of one of its oldest civic traditions as newly appointed Justices of the Peace (JPs) were inaugurated and sworn in at The Dome International Conference Centre, Akure. The ceremony was attended by top government officials, legal practitioners, and community leaders.
Delivering his welcome address, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of the State, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo SAN, OON, described the event as “a pivotal moment for our cherished Ondo State”, noting that the reintroduction of JPs restores a long-standing institution that had been inactive for years.
He commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, FCA, for making the appointments possible, saying the Governor’s approval reflects a commitment to strengthening community justice, peace-building, and grassroots governance.
The Attorney General provided historical context, tracing the origins of the Justice of the Peace office to 14th-century England, where trusted citizens were appointed by the Crown to maintain peace and resolve minor conflicts. He explained that the British colonial administration later introduced the system in Nigeria as part of indirect rule, relying on respected local figures for dispute resolution.
According to him, although the role has evolved over time, it remains a respected civic institution that bridges the gap between the formal justice system and community-level conflict management.
He said, “In Ondo State, this historical model resonates profoundly”, adding that the modern challenges of insecurity and diminishing trust in local governance make the Justice of the Peace system more relevant than ever.
Dr. Ajulo also emphasised the legal basis for the appointments, citing Section 12 of the Magistrates’ Court Law of Ondo State, which empowers the Governor to appoint individuals of integrity as Justices of the Peace. The law also grants the Governor authority to remove appointees when necessary.
“The appointees are expected to support minor dispute resolution, promote social order, and complement the work of the formal courts across communities. This initiative is also aimed at strengthening grassroots justice delivery, easing the burden on conventional courts, and helping to build safer, more harmonious communities across Ondo State.”