Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has sworn in six newly appointed high court judges.
Mr Aiyedatiwa, at the event on Thursday in Akure, described the event as a significant step in strengthening the judiciary and advancing the administration of justice in Ondo.
During his tenure, the governor said the importance of the appointments would mark the second large-scale judicial swearing-in.
The six newly sworn-in judges are Adebisi Daomi, Adeola Adegoroye, Justinah Kpemi, Happiness Demehin-Ogunbayo, Wumi Fabuluje and Idowu Ogunwumiju.
The governor appreciated the justices’ contributions to the legal profession and their dedication to justice.
Mr Aiyedatiwa appreciated the efforts of the chief judge, Justice Segun Odusola, for his leadership in ensuring a significant increase in the number of judges, thereby reducing the courts’ workload.
He thanked the National Judicial Council and the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, for facilitating the appointments.
Mr Aiyedatiwa commended the diligence, knowledge of the law, and commitment to justice, saying their appointments were a product of rigorous and thorough processes to have the most qualified hands in dispensing justice in Ondo.
He later reiterated his administration’s dedication to upholding the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary, encouraging the new judges to carry out their duties with “diligence, sobriety, courage, and the fear of God.”
Olukayode Ajulo, the attorney general and commissioner for justice, said the governor had high respect for the judiciary and a strong commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Mr Ajulo said that through his policies and actions, the governor consistently demonstrated his dedication to ensuring that the judiciary was well-resourced for effective justice delivery.
Mr Ajulo stated that the critical collaboration between the judiciary, the legal profession, the executive, and the legislature greatly improved the efficiency of the justice system in Ondo State.
He underscored that since the governor assumed office, there had been seamless cooperation between the executive and judicial branches, working together as progressive partners in advancing justice delivery across the state.