Igbosere High Court: Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund Records Progress, Seeks More Funding

The Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund (RLTF) says it has recorded “significant progress” on the redevelopment of Nigeria’s oldest courthouse, the Igbosere High Court.

Engr. Olujimi Hotonu, RLTF’s chief executive and project director, stated this on Monday during a press briefing and tour of the project site.

He noted that the Igbosere High Court, which was destroyed during the October 2020 EndSARS protest, is being given greater attention amongst the organisation’s ongoing projects.

Hotonu recalled that the ground-breaking of the court was made last December and was chaired by the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the presence of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Kazeem Alogba, and the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN).

“The development affirms the organisation’s commitment to rehabilitating destroyed monuments in the commercial nerve centre of the nation.

“The Fund has progressed on foundation works for the redevelopment of the old colonial building of the High Court of Lagos, Igbosere, and commences demolition works on the old Babalakin building ahead of the piling works for phase two development of the court multi-storey edifice,” Hotonu said.

According to him, the first phase of the reconstruction of the destroyed court building valued at N8 billion was in progress and will be completed and handed over in May 2024.

Meanwhile, he noted that the completion of the basement level and the foundation works of the restoration of the old colonial building (Phase 1), is at 75 percent.

“This milestone marks a significant step towards completing this iconic project, which will serve as a symbol of justice and fairness for the people of Lagos. The redevelopment of the court is still being executed in two phases- the restoration of the colonial building and the development of a multi-storey edifice.

“Igbosere High Court will be restored with major interior upgrades to meet modern-day design requirements but the external façade inclusive of its relics will be maintained. The Phase 1 redevelopment is a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet the highest standards of excellence.

“It is re-designed by a consortium of reputable consultants and executed by top-grade construction companies. The colonial building will comprise a modern court complex, auditorium, administrative offices, parking facilities, and other ancillary facilities.

“We call for support from individuals and organizations in the form of donations, grants, materials, and others to finish the project within the stipulated timeline.

In his closing remarks, he thanked the public for their patience and understanding as the court would be rebuilt.

He also stated that the Rebuild Lagos Trust Fund team is working tirelessly to ensure the timely completion of this critical project.