Oyebanji swears in new chief judge of Ekiti

Abdullateef Fowewe

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has sworn in the sixth substantive Chief Judge of the state, Lekan Ogunmoye.

Ogunmoye’s swearing-in followed his service within the judiciary, including as Acting Chief Judge since November 2024.

In a statement via the Governor’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle, on Tuesday, Oyebanji emphasised the gravity of the new role, charging his lordship to execute his duties with “courage, integrity, and justice.”

Oyebanji reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the independence of the judiciary, which he described as “the last hope of the common man.”

He pledged continued support and resources to ensure its effective functioning.

The Governor wrote, “I had the honour of swearing in Honourable Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the sixth substantive Chief Judge of Ekiti State.

“This is a significant moment for our state and the judiciary, and I charged His Lordship to discharge his duties with courage, integrity, and justice.

“Justice Ogunmoye has served meritoriously within the judiciary, including as Acting Chief Judge since November 2024. His appointment, confirmed by the House of Assembly, is both well-earned and timely.

“The judiciary remains the last hope of the common man, and our administration will continue to uphold its independence while providing the tools and support it needs to function effectively.

“Ekiti’s judiciary has a proud legacy of excellence and dignity. I am confident that under Justice Ogunmoye’s leadership, this standard will be maintained and further elevated. As I reminded him, the legacy he leaves behind will matter more than today’s accolades. I urged him to let history remember his tenure as one that ensured equal access to justice for all, strengthened the rule of law, and delivered prompt, efficient, and transparent service.

“We remain committed to judicial reforms, better infrastructure, and the digital transformation of the justice system. I congratulate Justice Ogunmoye and wish him a successful and impactful tenure.”