Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Monday swore in Justice Lekan Ogunmoye as the state acting chief judge.

Mr Ogunmoye’s inauguration was sequel to the passing away of the chief judge, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, on November 4.

Performing the ceremony at the Governor’s Office, Ado-Ekiti, Mr Oyebanji said it was aimed at sustaining judicial services.

He said the inauguration was in accordance with the exercise of the powers conferred on him under Section 271 (4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

“I know we are all emotional, but this is what we have to do. Nature abhors vacuum. Condolences to all of us, and may the good Lord rest the soul of the departed chief judge in Jesus’ name,’’ the governor stated.

While congratulating the acting chief judge, Mr Oyebanji noted that the situation on the ground called for sober reflection and personal challenge to him.

He urged the acting chief judge to bring to bear his high level of competence, dedication, hard work and professionalism further to turn around the justice sector in Ekiti.

In his response, Mr Ogunmoye thanked the governor for his appointment, pledging to dispense worthwhile justice for the sustained development of Ekiti.

The acting chief judge noted that the judiciary had enjoyed maximum cooperation and support under Mr Oyebanji’s administration, particularly due to the governor’s commitment and passion for the arm of government.

He appealed for more collaboration in order for him to continue with the ‘impressive legacies’ of his predecessors and ensure prompt justice delivery.

Mr Ogunmoye also solicited government support to enable him to raise the justice system from analogue to digital and improve the welfare of judiciary workers. 

(NAN)