As part of efforts to fast-track the dispensation of justice and ensure that justice is not only done but seen as done to all and sundry, especially at the grassroots level, the Oyo State Judiciary on Tuesday swore in 8 newly appointed Presidents of Customary Courts Grade “A”
The newly appointed Grade A Customary Court Presidents; two men and six women, will serve as the first legal filter to cases coming from the Customary Courts and will be handling matrimonial and customary land matters that fall within their jurisdictions.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony, the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabode Yerima, stated that with the appointment of more qualified legal practitioners as Presidents, Customary Court Grade “A”, she is confident that the judicial arm of government would be more steps closer to responding adequately to its statutory responsibilities to satisfy the common man who is constantly looking to it as the bastion of justice.
According to Justice Yerima, “This will go a long way to fast-track the dispensation of justice, especially at the grassroots level. it is pertinent to appreciate the indispensability of an independent judiciary to good governance, good neighbourliness and the protection of the helpless.
“I charge you to hit the ground running immediately in order to put the Customary Court on the fast track in the quick dispensation of justice, after all, justice delayed is justice denied. Remember the scales of justice are balanced and it is your duty to ensure they remain so. Treat each case with utmost care and consideration regardless of its magnitude,” she said.
The Chief Judge however warned that none of them must be absent from their duty post, emphasising that “wherever you are posted, you are bound to be there every day; from Monday to Friday and no excuse will be taken for not being at your duty post. The Oyo Judiciary will no longer tolerate indiscipline.
“Exercise your authority with fairness, impartiality, honour and utmost integrity. Your appointment is a testament to your dedication, knowledge and commitment to justice. Embrace challenges that lie ahead with courage and determination, knowing that you have the support and trust of your colleagues and the judiciary. May you uphold the principles of justice, preserve the rule of law and serve our communities with honour and integrity,” she added.
In his goodwill message, the Oyo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abiodun Aikomo, asked the newly appointed Presidents of Customary Courts Grade “A” not to take the confidence reposed on them by the state for granted, especially if they consider the rigorous exercise that produced them.
“Tackle justice effectively at the grassroots so that the people will have quicker and direct access to justice delivery because the grassroots is important in every society and upholds the tenets of the law,” he added.
