Aiyedatiwa to name new Ondo high court complex after Akeredolu
The governor said the facility will be called the Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu judiciary complex upon its completion, as a tribute to the former governor’s enduring legacy.
By Idris Temidayo
Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the governor of Ondo, says the new high court complex being built in Akure, the state capital, will be named after the late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
Akeredolu died on December 27, 2023, at the age of 67, after a protracted battle with prostate cancer.
The governor said the facility will be called the Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu judiciary complex upon its completion, as a tribute to the former governor’s enduring legacy.
Aiyedatiwa spoke on Friday during the foundation-laying ceremony for the complex and emphasised that naming the project after Akeredolu is a fitting tribute to honour his vision for the state’s judicial advancement.
He described the new facility as the realisation of Akeredolu’s dream of creating a state-of-the-art high court complex to improve the efficiency and welfare of the judiciary.
“This project is the fruition of the vision of our late leader, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. It was his aspiration to provide a modern judicial structure that would enhance the operation and welfare of our judiciary. Today, we are fulfilling his dream,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The governor further noted that the construction of a modern judicial complex had been a long-overdue need for Ondo state.
“Since the creation of Ondo State in 1976, no effort has been made to build a modern edifice for the administration of justice. This is a historic milestone for Ondo State and a significant commitment to advancing justice,” he added.
Despite financial challenges, Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of the project, saying that it would provide a conducive and modern working environment for the state’s judiciary.
The complex will include a ceremonial court, modular courts, a registry, a library, exhibition spaces, a utility building, and ample parking facilities.
“This complex is designed to enhance the administration of justice and expedite the dispensation of justice in Ondo State,” the governor stated.
The 13-hectare project has been awarded to Westfield Global Construction Company, with a timeline for completion set at 48 weeks.
Aiyedatiwa urged the people of Ondo to continue supporting the government’s efforts and pledged to maintain a focus on impactful governance.
Olusegun Odusola, the chief judge of Ondo, lauded the initiative, calling it a landmark achievement that would elevate the judiciary to global standards.
“The governor’s commitment to this project demonstrates his dedication to peace, justice, and the overall development of Ondo State,” Odusola said.
Kayode Ajulo, attorney-general and commissioner for justice, commended Aiyedatiwa for his swift action in advancing the state’s judicial infrastructure.
“In just one year, Governor Aiyedatiwa has laid a solid foundation for the growth of Ondo wtate’s judicial system. This project is a testament to his commitment to accessible justice and his belief in the judiciary as a cornerstone of democracy,” Ajulo stated.
