Governor Oyebanji Swears in Five High Court Judges

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Monday swore in five new High Court judges.

They are Justices Olanike Adegoke, Bamidele Bamise, Julius Ajibare, Stephen Akinyede, and Adefunke Anoma. Their merit-based appointments followed a rigorous screening process and official approval from the National Judicial Council (NJC).

The Governor noted that the state’s growth has increased court caseloads, making these appointments both timely and strategic.

He stated, “With the addition of the five new judges, I am doubly convinced that the Ekiti Judiciary is strengthened, reenergized, and repositioned for better, effective, and timely dispensation of justice.”

Oyebanji warned the judges’ associates against attempting to curry favor or exert corruptive influence over judicial decisions. He emphasized that an impartial judiciary is essential for state peace and order, urging the new appointees to remain firm against undue external pressures.

Attorney General Dayo Apata (SAN) highlighted that legal reforms were enacted to increase the statutory number of judges.

He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to the separation of powers, noting that the executive has strictly avoided interfering in judicial matters.

On behalf of the appointees, Justice Olanike Adegoke pledged a solemn commitment to the rule of law. She assured the public that the new judges would uphold the constitution and perform their duties with total independence, fairness, and transparency.

The NJC’s approval of the Ekiti five was part of a larger 27-candidate judicial expansion across seven Nigerian states.

This move is expected to significantly decongest court dockets and boost the morale of legal officers within the state’s Ministry of Justice.