Oyebanji swears in Ogunmoye as Ekiti’s new chief judge

Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, on Monday officially sworn in Hon. Justice Adekanye Lekan Ogunmoye as the sixth substantive Chief Judge of the state.

The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti. Justice Ogunmoye, who had been serving in an acting capacity since November 5, 2024, following the passing of the former Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, was administered the oath of office by Mrs. C. O. Adegoke.

Governor Oyebanji, in his remarks, congratulated the new Chief Judge and charged him to uphold the independence, dignity, and integrity of the judiciary.

“The judiciary is the last hope of the common man. It must be guided not by sentiment or fear, but by the constitution and the law,” the governor said. “Justice Ogunmoye’s unblemished record and extensive experience have positioned him to further raise the standard of our judicial system.”

He emphasized the need for the judiciary to remain apolitical and anchored in transparency and fairness, adding that his administration remains committed to supporting judicial reforms and infrastructure upgrades.

“Our government will continue to uphold the independence of the judiciary and support initiatives that enhance justice delivery,” Oyebanji stated.

Also speaking at the event, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Apata (SAN), praised the governor for his commitment to the rule of law, noting that the appointment followed due constitutional process, including the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and confirmation by the State Assembly.

In his acceptance speech, Justice Ogunmoye expressed appreciation to the governor and pledged to promote a digital, transparent, and accountable judiciary.

“My vision is to modernize court processes through digitalization, enhance transparency, and rebuild public confidence in the judicial system,” he said. “The judiciary must be efficient, accessible, and free from corruption.”

The new Chief Judge also highlighted plans to address technological gaps and infrastructural deficiencies within the state’s judicial system.

Dignitaries at the event included the President of the Ekiti State Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Toyin Abodunde; members of the state judiciary; traditional rulers including the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe; the Olomuo of Omuo-Ekiti, Oba Noah Omonigbehin; and the Olupole of Ipole-Iloro, Oba Ezekiel Oladele. Also in attendance were members of the State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, and other senior judicial officers from Ekiti and neighbouring states.