NPF hail Aiyedatiwa for appointing ex-commissioner as first Ondo JP

The Nigeria Police Force has commended the Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for appointing former Commissioner of Police, Olutokunbo Afolabi, as a Justice of the Peace (JP), describing the gesture as a landmark recognition for the policing institution.

Afolabi, who made history as the first Police Commissioner to be conferred with the JP title in Ondo State, was honoured during the inauguration of 130 new Justices of the Peace in Akure on Friday — an event that marked the revival of the JP office after 17 years of inactivity.

Senior officers and stakeholders within the security community commended the Governor for what they called an “unprecedented acknowledgement of professionalism, integrity and service to the State.”

According to them, Afolabi’s elevation reflects a growing appreciation for the role of the Police in maintaining peace, enforcing law and protecting lives across communities in Ondo State.

Afolabi, celebrated as a bridge between formal law enforcement and grassroots justice, expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for the “historic and humbling honour.”

He said the gesture underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice architecture through credible and experienced personalities.

Speaking after the ceremony, Afolabi expressed deep appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for what he called a “historic and humbling honour.”

He noted that becoming the first Police Commissioner to receive the title underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening the justice system through credible and experienced personalities.

Also speaking, Aiyedatiwa reiterated that the revival of the JP system aligns with his administration’s ‘Order, Security and the Rule of Law’ agenda.

He urged the new JPs to deploy their experience in conflict resolution, community peacebuilding and the promotion of justice at the grassroots.

Aiyedatiwa also announced the approval for the recruitment of 500 new Amotekun officers to further fortify community security.

In his remarks, the Attorney General, Dr Ajulo, highlighted the medieval origins of the JP institution and stressed that the appointments were based strictly on merit, integrity and service to the community.

Representative of the Chief Judge, Justice Akintan Osadebe, outlined the quasi-judicial responsibilities of JPs, which include dispute resolution, authentication of documents, maintaining public order and conducting routine inspections of detention facilities.

Responding on behalf of all appointees, Bashorun ’Seinde Arogbofa pledged unwavering commitment to peace, justice and community development across the State.

Other top security officials, including the Amotekun Commander, NSCDC Commandant, Comptroller of Immigration and the Brigade Commander of the 32 Artillery Brigade, also received the JP title, alongside prominent traditional and religious leaders.

Traditional and religious leaders on the list include Bishop Felix Adejumo; the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye III; and the Osemawe of Ondo, Oba Victor Kiladejo.

Culled from Tribune.