The Chief Judge of Kogi State, Honorable Justice Josiah Majebi, recently emphasized the significance of having a court within a community, stating that it symbolizes civilization and underscores the community’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.Â
This assertion came during the commissioning ceremony of a Senior Magistrate’s Court in Imane, Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State.
In his remarks, Justice Majebi highlighted that a society’s faith in the administration of justice and its willingness to create a conducive environment for legal proceedings are hallmarks of a civilized society.
“I want to thank all of you that made donations and sacrifices for the attainment of this judicial height in this community. The Imane people, having taken the trouble, and having made sacrifices to ensure you have this court today, is a testimony to the fact that you are civilized”.
 He commended the concerted efforts of the community in advocating for the establishment of the court and expressed gratitude to those who worked tirelessly for its realization.
The Chief Judge emphasized that the presence of a court not only signifies civilization but also fosters investment by ensuring the security of investors.
“Having courts close to you is an evidence of civilisation. It will eventually lead to the development of the area by attracting investors who will believe that when criminal activities are perpetrated against them, the police will arrest and the criminals will be taken to court for prosecution. That confidence will be built that their investment would be protected and their presence in the community secured. So I want to say that as your community is attractive and advancing, with the establishment of this court, I assure you that whatever progress you may have made before now, you will progress more.”
 He explained that proximity to courts instills confidence in investors, as they trust that criminal activities will be dealt with promptly and effectively. This, in turn, leads to the development of the area and encourages further investment.
Furthermore, Justice Majebi underscored the role of the court in sanctioning lawbreakers and regulating the conduct of individuals within the community.
 He clarified that courts are not established to encourage criminal behavior but rather to deter it by imposing sanctions on those who breach the law.
“The court commissioning today is to take care of your legal needs here as far as criminal matters are to be found here. We don’t establish courts to encourage criminals. We establish courts to sanction and regulate the conduct of individuals. So I want you to look at it that we are not calling for customers to that court from this society.
He urged the community to view the court as a mechanism for ensuring accountability and warned against engaging in criminal activities.
Addressing the youth specifically, Justice Majebi reiterated that the court is there to address misconduct and emphasized the importance of adhering to the law.
“When a court is established, it is also a warning to you not to commit crime because there’s sanction awaiting you if you do.
“Therefore, the court is here to sanction conducts that breach the law and at the same time, serve as signpost for you to know that there is punishment for every breach of the law.”
 While acknowledging the court’s role in enforcing consequences for unlawful behavior, he assured that arbitrary imprisonment is not the aim, but rather a means of maintaining order and promoting adherence to societal norms.
Justice Majebi urged the community to embrace the establishment of the court as a positive step towards enhancing security, fostering development, and promoting a culture of lawfulness and civility.
“We should also talk to our youths that the court is here to take care of those who misbehave. Though I believe that we are not going to be sending people from here to prison arbitrarily, just as my lord has advised just now, please warn yourselves” he added.,
