Prince Dapo Abiodun, the governor of Ogun State, has commended Hon. Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, President of the Court of Appeal, for authorizing the creation of the Court of Appeal’s Abeokuta Division.
He characterized the action as a significant step that will enhance the state’s access to justice and foster economic expansion.
Speaking at the State Treasury Board Meeting for the 2025–2028 Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and the 2026 Budget Session at the Oba’s Complex, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the governor declared that the approval was a historic ruling that would improve Ogun’s business environment and strengthen the legal system.
Abiodun stated, “I want to sincerely thank Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem for this visionary and practical decision.”
“Her endorsement of the Court of Appeal’s Abeokuta Division acknowledges the strategic significance of our state in Nigeria’s legal and economic environment.”
He pointed out that the Court of Appeal President had shown a thorough comprehension of Ogun State’s difficulties, particularly its increasing judicial burden.
The governor said, “Her leadership has brought renewed vigor to the appellate system and a stronger commitment to justice, fairness, and accessibility.”
Abiodun clarified that the state government had already fulfilled every prerequisite established by the Court of Appeal in order to establish the new division.
He claimed that because the institution will benefit the state’s economy and legal system, his administration made sure infrastructure was ready and donated land.
Justice will be more accessible to our people thanks to the new court. Additionally, it will encourage economic expansion and increase investor confidence. This is a key component of our Ease of Doing Business Index and a major facilitator of business activity.
The governor said that the establishment of a division in Abeokuta is essential as Ogun State accounts for around 75% of the appeal cases that the Ibadan Division handles.
“Having our own division means business and commercial disputes can now be resolved faster, giving investors more confidence to invest in our state,” he stated.
According to Abiodun, building would start right away on the new Court of Appeal complex site, which is already secured next to the Judiciary Complex on Kobape Road in Abeokuta.
“We’re not holding out for federal money. Our administration will finance the project and seek reimbursement afterward. Before my term ends, the court will be finished and operational.
The governor called the creation of the new division a milestone in both government and the legal system.
He claimed that it demonstrates Justice Dongban-Mensem’s vision and impartiality, as he has demonstrated a strong dedication to the effective administration of justice throughout the nation.
He declared, “The new division will ensure timely resolution of appeals, decongest the Ibadan Division, and make judicial services more accessible to our people.”
Abiodun also thanked the Ogun State Judiciary for its collaboration and professionalism, calling it as the final hope of the ordinary man and a critical partner in the state’s success.
The success of his administration, he continued, has been largely attributed to the remarkable cooperation between the judicial and executive branches of government.
The governor stated, “The creation of the Abeokuta Division of the Court of Appeal is not just about delivering justice; it is about governance, equity, and development.”
“It is a legacy project that represents cooperation between the Ogun State Government and the federal judiciary.”
Governor Abiodun came to the conclusion that the new division will transform Ogun State’s legal system, shorten appeal case processing times, and make justice “swifter, fairer, and more accessible” while bolstering public trust in the rule of law and governance.
