The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ibadan Branch, has expressed deep concern over what it described as inadequate funding of the judiciary in Oyo State, warning that the situation could hinder justice delivery and weaken public confidence in the legal system.

Speaking during a recent engagement in Ibadan, Chairman of the branch, Ibrahim Lawal, said many courts across the state were operating under difficult conditions due to poor financial support, inadequate infrastructure, and neglect of judicial institutions.

Lawal noted that several magistrates’ courts and customary courts, particularly outside the state capital, lacked basic facilities needed for efficient operations. He added that poor welfare conditions for judicial officers and insufficient resources were affecting the performance of the judiciary.

The NBA chairman also raised concerns over the alleged non-functionality of some Rent Tribunals and Customary Courts in the state, saying the development had denied many residents access to affordable and timely justice. According to him, reports that electricity supply to the Customary Court of Appeal was disconnected over unpaid bills further reflected the level of neglect facing the sector.

He urged the Oyo State Government, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, to prioritise judicial funding and ensure the independence of the courts through improved financial autonomy and institutional support.

Lawal stressed that no society can achieve sustainable development without a strong and functional judiciary, adding that the legal profession would continue to advocate reforms that strengthen the rule of law.