Oyebanji swears in five judges in Ekiti, stresses human rights protection

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Oyebanji, inaugurated five new judges of the state High Court on Monday, while urging them to uphold justice and protect the rights of citizens, particularly the vulnerable.

The swearing-in ceremony which held at the Conference Hall of the Governor’s Office in Ado-Ekiti, had in attendance members of the judiciary, government officials and legal practitioners.

Speaking at the event, Oyebanji described the judiciary as a critical pillar of democracy and emphasised the need for a justice system that is efficient, impartial and accessible to all citizens.

The governor disclosed that the appointments followed rigorous constitutional and screening procedures, noting that the newly elevated judges earned their positions through competence, integrity and professional excellence.

He explained that the appointments became necessary due to the increasing number of cases arising from expanding economic activities and growing public confidence in the courts, adding that the new judges would help reduce case backlog and accelerate justice delivery.

Oyebanji charged the judges to regard their elevation as a solemn call to service, amid admonishing them to discharge their duties without fear or favour while exercising the powers of the bench with responsibility and integrity.

He also warned associates and well-wishers against attempting to influence judicial decisions, stressing that justice must remain accessible to all and not be perceived as serving only the powerful.

The newly sworn-in judges include Justices Adegoke Olanike, Bamise Sunday, Akinyede Stephen, Ajibare Julius and Anoma Funke. Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, Justice Adegoke Olanike, assured the public that they would uphold the Constitution and administer justice diligently at all times.