Ogun Chief Judge deploys special magistrates’ panel to hear 201 cases in 14 days

From Laide Raheem, Abeokuta

As part of continued efforts by the Ogun State Judiciary to decongest correctional centres, the state’s Chief Judge, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, has deployed a special magistrates’ panel to preside over 201 cases in a 14-day accelerated hearing.

The Chief Registrar, High Court of Ogun State, Olakulehin Oke, who made this known in a statement, said the step was part of activities marking the state judiciary’s intervention week, scheduled to carry out a comprehensive decongestion exercise at the Sagamu Correctional Centre between Monday, 24 November 2025, and Friday, 5 December 2025.

Oke disclosed that eight magistrates will preside over 201 cases drawn from Magistrates’ Courts at Sagamu, Mowe, Ojodu-Abiodun, and Isara Magisterial Districts.

The Chief Registrar added that the intervention week will focus on accelerated hearings, review of eligible cases, and consideration of matters suitable for non-custodial measures in accordance with relevant laws.

“This initiative forms part of the Honourable Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice M. A. Dipeolu’s continuous efforts to enhance the administration of criminal justice, promote human rights, and ensure the efficient management of custodial facilities across the state,” Oke stated in the statement.

He explained further that all the cases will be heard within the Sagamu Magisterial District over the two-week period, adding that the list of affected cases had been disseminated across the concerned magisterial districts.

“The exercise will be undertaken by the designated magistrates in collaboration with the Nigerian Correctional Service, the Nigeria Police, the Nigerian Bar Association, security agencies, and other critical partners in the justice sector. All procedures will strictly adhere to legal standards and safeguard the rights of all persons concerned, most especially those in custody,” he said.

“The Judiciary Intervention Week is aimed at strengthening justice delivery, reducing unnecessary delays, and addressing congestion challenges without compromising public safety or legal due process.

“The Ogun State Judiciary appreciates the cooperation of all stakeholders and encourages the public to support this important justice-sector initiative,” Oke submitted.