Ogun Chief Judge Drums Support For Alternative Dispute Resolutions

The Ogun State Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has solicited the support of community leaders towards providing pathways for dispute resolution through mediation, conciliation, arbitration, negotiation, and other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms

Dipeolu made the call while commissioning a Multi-Door Courthouse in Idioke/Igbesa, Ado Odo/Ota Local Government Area of the state, donated by a traditional ruler in the area

While highlighting the advantages of a Multi-Door Courthouse, she opined that peace secured through dialogue and compromise frequently serves society better than a victory obtained after years of costly and protracted litigation.

“Today is a day of celebration, gratitude, and reflection. We are gathered here not merely to commission a building, but to celebrate a vision: a vision that justice should not only be available but should also be accessible, affordable, timely, and responsive to the needs of the people,” she said

“Without peace, commerce and investment suffer. Without peace, communities stagnate. And without effective dispute resolution, peace itself becomes difficult to sustain.

“The English philosopher Thomas Hobbes once observed that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of structures capable of resolving conflict.

“Many members of the public still assume that justice can only be obtained through litigation. The reality is different. Not every dispute requires a full trial, and not every disagreement requires years of courtroom proceedings.

“The highest form of justice is not always found in the pronouncement of a judgment after a contested trial. Quite often, it is found in a resolution that preserves relationships, restores understanding between parties, and brings disputes to a mutually acceptable conclusion.

“The Multi-Door Courthouse provides various pathways for dispute resolution through mediation, conciliation, arbitration, negotiation, and other alternative dispute resolution mechanisms.

“Its objective is simple: to resolve disputes quickly, fairly, and efficiently while reducing the emotional and financial burden often associated with prolonged litigation.

“As Abraham Lincoln wisely advised lawyers many years ago: “Discourage litigation. Persuade your neighbours to compromise whenever you can. Although those words were spoken more than a century ago, they remain as relevant today as ever.”

She said the modern justice system must not be measured solely by the number of judgments delivered. It must also be measured by its ability to restore harmony, preserve relationships, and prevent disputes from escalating unnecessarily.

“The Multi-Door Courthouse helps us achieve these objectives. It is therefore particularly fitting that such an institution should find a permanent home in a community known for enterprise, growth, and development,” she said.

“The Igbesa, Agbara, and Idi-Oke axis has become one of the fastest-growing industrial and commercial corridors in Nigeria. Where commerce thrives, disputes inevitably arise. The presence of this facility, therefore, ensures that businesses, investors, residents, and institutions within this axis have access to a modern and efficient dispute resolution mechanism.

“This is not merely an investment in justice. It is an investment in economic development and community peace. Distinguished Guests, one of the most encouraging aspects of this project is the example it sets for public-private-community partnership.

“The administration of justice is a shared responsibility. While the Judiciary bears the constitutional mandate of dispensing justice, the development of the infrastructure and institutions that support that mandate often requires the cooperation of Government, traditional institutions, communities, and other stakeholders committed to the public good.

“This facility stands as proof that the administration of justice is a collective responsibility. It demonstrates what can happen when traditional institutions, communities, and the Judiciary work together in pursuit of a common goal.

“I hope that this example will inspire other communities across Ogun State to support the development of judicial infrastructure within their respective jurisdictions.

“The Judiciary remains grateful for every form of support received from communities, individuals and organisations committed to strengthening access to justice.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, as we celebrate today’s achievement, I am pleased to announce that the expansion of the Multi-Door Courthouse system in Ogun State continues steadily.

“I am particularly delighted to inform this gathering that the Sixth Ogun Multi-Door Courthouse, located in Ilaro, is ready for commissioning. This development further demonstrates the Judiciary’s commitment to extending alternative dispute resolution services to all parts of the State. Our vision is simple: every citizen of Ogun State should have access to efficient, affordable, and effective dispute resolution services regardless of location.

“As we commission this facility today, let us remember that buildings alone do not dispense justice. People do. The true value of this Courthouse will depend on the quality of service rendered within its walls.

“May this Courthouse remain a centre of peace, reconciliation and justice, serving the needs of the people and advancing the progress and prosperity of Ogun State for generations to come. And may Almighty God continue to bless Kabiyesi, the people of Idi-Oke and Igbesa, and the entire Ogun State,” she said.

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