Uphold Integrity, Fairness in Office, Adeleke Tells New JPs

Uphold Integrity, Fairness in Office, Adeleke Tells New JPs
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has charged newly inaugurated Justices of Peace (JPs) in the state to uphold integrity, fairness and honesty in the discharge of their duties, warning them against partisanship, corruption and abuse of office.
Adeleke gave the charge during the inauguration of 130 Justices of Peace held at the Local Government Service Commission Hall, State Secretariat Complex, Abere.
The governor reminded the appointees that the oath they took was not only before the government but also before God and the people they are expected to serve faithfully.
“The office of the Justice of Peace is one of honour, trust and responsibility. You are expected to serve as ambassadors of peace, honesty and equity in your various communities,” Adeleke said.
He described the institution of the Justice of Peace as a respected and long standing part of Nigeria’s legal system, noting that holders of the office are expected to act as impartial mediators and witnesses in legal matters at the grassroots level.
According to the governor, the Justice of Peace system aligns with his administration’s commitment to bringing justice closer to the people and easing the burden on conventional courts through community based dispute resolution.
He assured the newly inaugurated officers of the state government’s continued support and training to enable them to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
“I am confident that you will justify the trust and confidence reposed in you by the government and the people of Osun State,” he added.
In his remarks, Chairman of the association, Chief George Adeyemi, described the conferment of the Justice of Peace title as a great honour bestowed on carefully selected individuals across the state.
He urged the recipients to justify the confidence reposed in them by carrying out their responsibilities diligently and responsibly.
Adeyemi also commended Governor Adeleke for supporting the association and approving the conferment, describing the move as a significant step towards strengthening grassroots justice delivery in the state.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Osun State, Barrister Oluwole Jimi Bada, appreciated the governor for granting approval for the conferment of the title on the awardees.
Bada noted that the initiative would support the judicial system by helping to resolve several disputes at the community level.
Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Deaconess Mary Awosika expressed appreciation to the governor, traditional rulers and supporters for the honour bestowed on them.
She also prayed for the continued success of the Adeleke administration.
Among those inaugurated were Oba Micheal Adebisi, Oba Musbau Akande Gbenusola and Comrade Tadese Adebayo, among others.
