The Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Ondo State, Barrister Gbenga Akinbuli, has raised concerns over the poor state of High Court 1 located in Oka, Ondo Town, describing it as a serious indictment of the state’s judicial infrastructure.
In a public letter addressed to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, Akinbuli expressed deep dissatisfaction over the condition of the court, citing leaking roofs, worn-out facilities, and an overall atmosphere unfit for judicial activities.
According to him, the current state of the courthouse reflects a broader issue of neglect and a lack of commitment to the administration of justice in Ondo State.
“As both a legal practitioner and a son of Ondo Town, I find the state of this courtroom deeply troubling. It’s painful to see a court meant to uphold justice fall into such disrepair, especially during the rainy season when the structural failures are exposed,” Akinbuli wrote.
He questioned whether the Attorney General was aware of the situation or had deliberately ignored the poor state of the judiciary in the state.
“I recall Dr. Ajulo speaking about judicial reform shortly after assuming office. But how does this align with what we’re seeing? A court with leaking roofs, uncomfortable seating, and a dilapidated environment cannot be part of any meaningful reform,” Akinbuli stated.
He further demanded immediate intervention and reforms, beginning with the enforcement of financial autonomy for the judiciary. He urged the Attorney General to advise Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on the need to prioritize the judiciary in budgetary allocations and policy implementation.
“If funds have been released for judicial purposes, what oversight measures are in place to ensure they are used transparently and effectively? Without accountability, even disbursed resources may fail to bring meaningful change,” he queried.
The SDP chairman stressed that the conversation was not political but a call for action to restore dignity to the courts and confidence in the legal system.
“The working conditions within our courts are demoralising for both judicial officers and lawyers. Young legal professionals lose hope when they see the environment in which justice is expected to be served,” he noted.
Akinbuli also warned that unless urgent steps are taken to fix the decaying courtrooms and improve the welfare of judicial workers, the credibility of the judiciary will continue to suffer.
He called on the public to demand more from those in positions of authority, insisting that the state must not continue to tolerate a system where key institutions are left to crumble.
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