Ekiti State is in mourning following the passing of its Chief Judge, Justice Oyewole Adeyeye, who died on November 4, 2024, at the age of 64 after a brief illness. According to Quest News, Justice Adeyeye passed away in a tertiary healthcare facility in Ekiti State. While specific details remain confidential, sources close to the matter report that the Chief Judge had been hospitalized for a short period before his demise.
Justice Adeyeye, known for his principled approach to justice and dedication to the legal profession, was appointed Chief Judge of Ekiti State on October 11, 2021, by then-Governor Kayode Fayemi. His career has been marked by a series of significant contributions to the judiciary, particularly in Ekiti State, where he played a pivotal role in upholding legal standards and strengthening the judiciary.
Born in 1960 in Araromi Ugbesi in Ekiti East Local Government Area, Justice Adeyeye’s journey into the legal world began when he was called to the bar in 1986. His career commenced as a state counsel in the civil service of the former Ondo State, where his commitment to legal service quickly became evident. Following the creation of Ekiti State in 1996, Adeyeye joined the newly formed Ekiti State Judiciary Service Commission, where he made significant strides in judicial administration.
In 2002, Justice Adeyeye was elevated to the role of judge in the Ekiti State High Court, a position that allowed him to contribute more directly to the judicial landscape of the state. His reputation for integrity and fairness was further solidified through his participation in various election petition tribunals, where he was instrumental in ensuring transparency and adherence to legal protocols.
Justice Adeyeye’s passing leaves a profound impact on Ekiti’s judicial community, with colleagues and citizens alike honoring his memory as a dedicated jurist who served with humility and distinction.