Ogun swears in 10 new magistrates

Abiodun Onafuye/Abeokuta

The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Olatokunbo Olopade today swore in ten new magistrates for effective and speedy attention to the many cases in the state.

The newly sworn-in magistrates takes the total number of magistrates in the state to 32, presiding over 16 magisterial district in the state.

Among those sworn-in today at the Ogun State High Court, Isabo, Abeokuta, the state capital were Adeola Daudu, Oluranti Farounbi, Olatilewa Oyefeso, Olakoleyin Oke, Ajibolu Shomorin, Temitope Adebutu, Oyindamola Onifade, Temitope Ayobolu, Folarin Iroko and Sunday Ogongo.

Olopade disclosed that the appointment of the new Magistrates became imperative, because of the ever increasing work load in the magistracy.

According to her, “Prior to today, we had 22 Magistrates, as at the end of November, there were 1,280 civil cases and 2,932 criminal cases pending before the 22 magistrates.

“Statistic shows that on the average, 230 criminal overnight cases and 185 civil cases are brought to our courts on a monthly basis, it is therefore became very necessary that more Magistrates be brought on board,” Olopade said.

She added that in order to bring justice closer to indigenes of the State, two new Magisterial district had been created.

The two were cited at Ishara Magisterial district and Ifo Magisterial district.

Olopade expressed confidence that the new magistrates would excel at their duty, having emerged the best of 72 applicants who sat for the competitive examination.

She also urged them to always uphold the ethics of the profession and make self-discipline their watchword, adding that, they should discharge their duties without pressure, favouritism and undue influence.

“I want you all to know that you are joining a formidable team of magistrates and jurist, you cannot afford to be non-performers,” Olopade advised.

While giving the vote of thanks on behalf of the newly sworn in magistrates, magistrate Adeola Daudu promised that they will be of good behaviour and uphold and protect the laws of the state.