Aiyedatiwa swears in six new high court judges

Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has sworn in six newly appointed judges of the State High Court.

Aiyedatiwa, at the event on Thursday in Akure, described the event as a significant step in strengthening the judiciary and advancing the administration of justice in the state.

The governor said the importance of the appointments would mark the second large-scale judicial swearing-in, during his tenure.

The six newly sworn-in judges are; Hon. Justices Adebisi Daomi, Adeola Adegoroye, Justinah Kpemi, Happiness Demehin-Ogunbayo, Wumi Fabuluje and Idowu Ogunwumiju.

The governor appreciated the justices for their contributions to the legal profession and their dedication to justice.

“This is particularly fulfilling for me, as it marks the second instance on record in our administration that appointment to the bench of the state judiciary would be carried out, and in large number.

“These appointees have distinguished themselves in the practice of law and administration of justice in our dear state,” he said.

Aiyedatiwa appreciated the efforts of the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Segun Odusola, for his leadership in ensuring a significant increase in the number of judges, thereby reducing the workload of the courts.

He thanked the National Judicial Council and the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, GCON, for their role in facilitating the appointments.

Aiyedatiwa commended the diligence, knowledge of the law, and commitment to justice, saying their appointments were as a product of rigorous and thorough processes, to have most qualified hands in dispensing justice in the state

He later reiterated his administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, encouraging the new judges to carry out their duties with “diligence, sobriety, courage, and the fear of God.”

Earlier, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice for Ondo State, Olukayode Ajulo, said the governor had high respect for the judiciary, and his strong commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Ajulo said through his policies and actions, the governor had consistently demonstrated his dedication to ensuring the judiciary was well-resourced, for the effective delivery of justice.

Ajulo stated the critical collaboration between the judiciary, the legal profession, the executive, and the legislature, which had greatly improved the efficiency of the justice system in Ondo State.

He underscored that since the governor assumed office, there had been seamless cooperation between the executive and judicial branches, working together as progressive partners, in advancing justice delivery across the state.

Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed judges, Justice Williams Daomi, pledged that they would uphold the high standards of the judiciary and serve as exemplary ambassadors.

It was reported that official vehicles were later presented to each of the judges.