Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has sworn in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the acting Chief Judge of the state.
The swearing-in event was held at the Conference Room, Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, on Monday.
Ogunmoye replaces the late Chief Judge, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, who passed away on November 4, 2024.
A statement issued by the state government quoted the governor as saying that the swearing-in was in accordance with the powers conferred on him under Section 271 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.
“I know we are all emotional, but this is what we have to do; nature abhors a vacuum. Condolences to all of us, and may the good Lord rest the soul of the departed CJ in Jesus’ name.
“On the 4th of November 2024, Ekiti lost a rare gem, a perfect gentleman, and an epitome of judicial integrity, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, a distinguished Chief Judge of Ekiti State who died in active service. He was a dedicated and respected jurist who, in his journey through life, dedicated his life to upholding the rule of law and access to justice. He will always be remembered for his contribution to the development of justice in our dear state. His legacy of honesty, professionalism, and erudition as a judge will never be forgotten.
“Even as we mourn the exit of this legal luminary, we are faced with the reality that nature abhors a vacuum, especially in such an important organ of government like the judiciary. It is for this reason that, in the exercise of the powers conferred on me by Section 271 Subsection 4 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, I appointed Honourable Justice Lekan Adekanye Ogunmoye as the acting Chief Judge of the state.
“This is to ensure that a vacuum is not created and that the state judicial apparatus continues to run smoothly,” Oyebanji said.
The governor urged the acting Chief Judge to bring to bear his high level of competence, dedication, hard work, and professionalism to further advance the development of the justice sector.
“I do not doubt your competency and leadership acumen either. I therefore want to charge you to lead the judiciary at this moment of transition with humility, brotherly solidarity, and experience. I also want to urge you to reflect deeply on the oath you have just subscribed to, which is to discharge your duties to the best of your abilities and with faithfulness under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
In his response, Ogunmoye expressed gratitude to the governor for the appointment and pledged to dispense worthwhile justice for the sustained development of the state.
While acknowledging the maximum cooperation and support the judiciary has enjoyed under the Oyebanji administration, Ogunmoye sought further collaboration towards moving the justice system from analogue to digital delivery.
