Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has sworn in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the Acting Chief Judge of the state.
Earlier, The New Daily Prime reported the governor’s appointment of Ogunmoye to succeed the late Chief Judge, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, who died on 4 November.
The governor conducted the swearing-in during a brief yet solemn ceremony at the Conference Room in the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, on Monday.
He emphasised that the inauguration was necessary to maintain uninterrupted judicial services, as ‘nature abhors a vacuum.’
Governor Oyebanji explained that the inauguration aligns with the powers vested in him by Section 271 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended.
He said: “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 day 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, one is faced with the reality that nature abhors 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 217 subsection 4 of the constitution of the federal republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, appointed honourable Justice Lekan Adekanye Ogunmoye as the acting Chief Judge of the state.
“This is to ensure that vacuum is not created and that the state judicial apparatus continues to run smoothly.”
While congratulating Justice Ogunmoye on his new position, Governor Oyebanji emphasised that the current circumstances demand both sober reflection and a deep personal commitment from the Acting Chief Judge.
He encouraged Justice Ogunmoye to apply his exceptional competence, dedication, hard work, and professionalism to drive meaningful progress and transformation within the justice sector.
“I do not doubt your competency 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 faithfulness, in accordance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”, he added.
The Acting Chief Judge expressed gratitude to the state governor for his appointment, pledging to uphold justice in ways that would foster the state’s sustained development.
Justice Ogunmoye highlighted that the Judiciary had received robust cooperation and support under Governor Oyebanji’s administration, especially noting the governor’s commitment and dedication to this arm of government.
He stressed the need for continued collaboration to carry forward the remarkable legacies of his predecessors and ensure timely justice delivery.
Additionally, he appealed for government support to transition the justice system from analogue to digital operations, aiming to streamline processes and enhance the welfare of judicial staff.
