By Ayodele Oni
There is growing disaffection among residents of Ondo State over what they term undignified living conditions of Judicial officers, especially Magistrates and Customary Court Judges.
The situation became tense following the involvement of Mrs. Busola Ayo Dada, President of a Customary Court in the State, in an Okada (commercial motorcycles) accident which she rode while rushing to work.
The incident has intensified public concern and renewed calls for urgent government intervention in the plight of the Judicial officers.
The situation has been blamed on government’s failure to provide official vehicles for the Judicial officers.
The development has sparked widespread criticism, with legal practitioners and concerned citizens describing the situation as a glaring contradiction in a state that benefits from the 13 percent oil derivation fund.
A legal practitioner, Barrister Adedamola Ambekemo, who drew attention to the issue, described the situation as both “dangerous and disgraceful,” warning that judicial officers are being exposed to unnecessary risks despite their critical role in society.
According to him, the state government had previously pledged to provide official vehicles for judicial officers, a promise he says has been abandoned.
“It is unacceptable that those entrusted with upholding the law are left to fend for themselves in such a risky manner. These are not just commuters; they are symbols of justice and authority,” Ambekemo stated.
He argued that beyond the safety concerns, the situation undermines the integrity and dignity of the judiciary, especially at the grassroots level where customary courts and magistrates serve as the first point of contact for many citizens seeking justice.
Observers note that the image of judges navigating traffic on motorcycles not only exposes them to physical danger, but also erodes public confidence in the justice system.
“This is bigger than transportation. It speaks to how much value is placed on the judiciary and the administration of justice in the state,” Ambekemo added.
The criticism has been particularly sharp given Ondo State’s status as an oil-producing region, with many questioning how a government with access to significant derivation funds has failed to meet such a basic obligation.
For many residents, the accident involving Mrs. Dada is a stark reminder of the consequences of official neglect.
“This was avoidable,” a legal analyst noted. “It should not take a tragedy for the government to act.”
Calls are now mounting for immediate provision of official vehicles, improved welfare packages, and enhanced safety measures for judicial officers across the state.
Stakeholders warn that continued neglect could weaken the justice system, as morale among judicial officers declines and public trust diminishes.
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