New Supreme Court Justice Oyewole Takes Oath Of Office Wednesday

The newly appointed Supreme Court Justice, Justice Olubunmi Oyewole, will assume duty on Wednesday after taking the oath of office.

The chief justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, is expected to preside over the swearing-in ceremony.

Dr Festus Akande, director of Information and Public Relations at the Supreme Court, said his appointment underscores the Nigerian judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, ensuring justice, and strengthening the bench with experienced and dedicated jurists.

He said Oyewole brings a wealth of legal expertise and integrity to the apex court to further enhance its capacity to deliver fair and timely judgments.

“The swearing-in marks another significant step in rejuvenating the judiciary and ensuring the continued delivery of justice in line with the highest standards of integrity, competence and impartiality,” he said.

Akande advised all invited guests to adhere strictly to the court’s protocols and security measures.

“The Supreme Court of Nigeria remains committed to the principles of justice, fairness and judicial independence for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he added.

Prior to his elevation, Justice Oyewole served with distinction as a justice of the Court of Appeal and presiding justice of the Enugu Division.

Last month, the National Judicial Council (NJC) announced the appointment of Justice Oyewole to the apex court

The council, at its 110th meeting held between January 13 and 14, 2026, presided over by the CJN, made the decision public.

Justice Oyewole is considered one of the most outstanding jurists on the Bench; he played a significant role in the reform of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act in Nigeria.

Justice Oyewole upheld the sacking of Senator Peter Nwaoboshi as the senator-elect for Delta North Senatorial District. He described Nwaoboshi’s appeal as lacking in merit.

Also, Chief Bode George was sentenced to prison by Justice Olubunmi Oyewole of the Lagos State High Court in 2009 for corruption charges related to his time at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), though his conviction was later quashed by the Supreme Court in 2013, led by Justice John Afolabi Fabiyi, who found the charges of “contract splitting” legally insufficient.

Justice Oyewole is known for some of his landmark judgments as a judge in Lagos High Court, which earned him the elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2014. He was born on May 13, 1965. He hails from Ila Oragun in Osun State and received his education in Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and Lagos States.

He was appointed a judge of the Lagos State High Court on May 24, 2001, serving there before being elevated to the Court of Appeal, where he currently sits in the Enugu Division.