Tributes have poured in for Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, Ekiti State's first female Chief Judge, following her retirement from the Court of Appeal at the age of 70. Prominent figures have commended her contributions to the judiciary and the legal profession. Omoleye was the first female Chief Judge of Ekiti State before her elevation to the Court of Appeal.
A thanksgiving service was held in honour of Omoleye at Emmanuel Cathedral, Okesha, Ado Ekiti. The Archbishop of Jos Province and Bishop of Yola, Marcus Amfani, commended Omoleye's contributions to the legal profession, describing her as "a trailblazer whose service had made a significant impact on the judiciary in Nigeria." Amfani called on people in positions of authority to serve with integrity and leave behind positive legacies.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, hailed Omoleye as a blessing to the state, describing her as someone who served the country with honour and integrity. Oyebanji said Omoleye's contributions to the legal profession and the development of the judiciary would continue to be remembered. He announced that a new court complex being constructed by the state government would be named after Omoleye.
At a special valedictory court session held at the Appellate Court in Ado Ekiti, Oyebanji presented a new Toyota SUV to the retired jurist. The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, described Omoleye as a distinguished judicial officer who contributed immensely to the development of the Nigerian judiciary and justice administration.
The Ekiti Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Dayo Apata (SAN), described Omoleye as "an exceptional jurist and an accomplished lawyer." Apata said Justice Omoleye's distinguished career had demonstrated that excellence could be achieved without compromising professional standards. He particularly mentioned her intellectual development, commitment to service, and relentless dedication to the judiciary.
In her response, Justice Omoleye appreciated God for guiding and sustaining her throughout her judicial career. She said her journey had never been merely a succession of offices, but a series of experiences that shaped her understanding of law, service, and humanity. Omoleye expressed appreciation to Governor Oyebanji, former Governor Niyi Adebayo, and others who stood by her throughout her career.
Justice Omoleye served as Chief Judge of Ekiti State between 2003 and 2006, before her elevation to the Court of Appeal, where she spent 20 years. She became a Presiding Justice of the appellate court in September 2013. Several notable figures, including the Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olayemi Adelami, and human rights lawyer, Mr Femi Falana (SAN), attended the valedictory session.
Key points
- Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, announced that a new court complex would be named after Justice Omoleye.
- The President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, commended Justice Omoleye's professionalism, integrity, and commitment to the administration of justice.
- Justice Omoleye served as Chief Judge of Ekiti State and spent 20 years at the Court of Appeal.
