Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday swore in 10 judges, comprising eight for the Oyo State High Court and two for the Customary Court of Appeal. During the ceremony at the Executive Council Chamber of the Governor’s Office in Ibadan, Makinde urged the newly appointed judges to uphold their duties with integrity and meet the expectations of their positions.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the judiciary to perform effectively, adding that the appointments were based on merit and devoid of executive interference.
Makinde highlighted the collaborative relationship between the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government in delivering democratic dividends to the people of Oyo State. He noted the critical role of the judiciary in implementing his administration’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development (2023-2027) and ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
He charged the judges to remain impartial and protect citizens’ rights, stressing that their role was essential for building a law-abiding society. Makinde also reiterated plans to strengthen law enforcement through technology and infrastructure, promising to address issues such as traffic violations and other breaches of the law.
The Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima, lauded the governor for his unwavering support of the judiciary, noting that Makinde’s administration had appointed 15 judges—the highest by any government in the state’s history. She also acknowledged the governor’s investments in judicial infrastructure and the provision of 38 vehicles, including new ones for the 10 sworn-in judges.
Justice Yerima charged the new judges to uphold honesty, steadfastness, and dedication as they tackle the growing volume of cases in the judiciary’s docket.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin; and other prominent legal and political figures.
