Gov. Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti on Monday swore in five newly appointed High Court Judges, pledging to strengthen judicial administration and deepen the justice system in the state.
Oyebanji, during the swearing-in ceremony held at the Government House in Ado-Ekiti, described the elevation of the judges as a call to service.
The governor urged them to uphold the Constitution and dispense justice without fear, favour, affection or ill will.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the elevated judges include Justices Adegoke Caroline, Bamise Sunday, Bamidele Ajibare Julius, Akinyede Rotimi and Anoma Helen.
Oyebanji said that only an efficient, accessible and impartial justice system could guarantee peace, order and sustainable development, assuring that the government would continue to provide the resources required by the judiciary.
The governor charged the judges to exemplify equity, fairness and integrity, noting that judicial standards of conduct were among the highest globally and that public confidence depended on their impartiality.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the judiciary and appealed to associates of the judges to refrain from exerting undue influence that could undermine the course of justice.
Oyebanji noted that the appointments were made in line with constitutional provisions and on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
The governor said that the new judges had demonstrated competence, integrity and sound character.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), commended the governor for reforms in the justice sector, including increasing the number of judges, improving judicial welfare and expanding court infrastructure across the state.
Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; a member of the House of Representatives, Abiodun Omoleye; the Chief Judge of the state, Lekan Ogunmoye; as well as government officials, traditional rulers and representatives of the judiciary.
