The Ekiti State Government has announced plans to name its new Court of Appeal complex after Justice Oyebisi Omoleye, who has retired from the bench upon reaching the mandatory age of 70.
Omoleye, who made history as Ekiti State’s first female Chief Judge, received tributes from government officials and senior legal practitioners at events marking the end of her judicial career.
Governor Biodun Oyebanji announced the decision to name the new court building after her during a valedictory session in Ado-Ekiti. He also presented the retired judge with a Toyota SUV as a gesture of appreciation for her years of service.
Oyebanji said, “This is to express appreciation. This is just a token from the government and people of Ekiti State to thank you for your service, for making us proud and for walking this landmark without blemish.
“My prayer is that the good Lord will continue to protect you and be with you. In the next few months, we expect to see you here to inaugurate the new court building that is going to be named after you.”
The governor praised Omoleye’s record in public service, saying her work had earned her respect and contributed to the development of the judiciary.
“Her career in the judiciary was marked by dedication and an unblemished record of service,” he said.
The retirement was also marked with a thanksgiving service at Emmanuel Cathedral, Okesha, Ado-Ekiti, where the Archbishop of Jos Province and Bishop of Yola, Marcus Amfani, spoke about the retired judge’s influence on the legal profession.
Amfani described Omoleye as “a trailblazer whose service had made a significant impact on the judiciary in Nigeria.”
He used the occasion to remind public office holders of the importance of integrity, urging those in leadership positions “to serve with integrity and leave behind positive legacies.”
The cleric also called on leaders to put the welfare of the people first and live in a way that would earn them lasting respect.
“A good name is more valuable than gold and silver,” he said.
At the valedictory session, the President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem, commended Omoleye for her contributions to justice administration and the growth of the Nigerian judiciary.
Dongban-Mensem, who was represented by Justice Ali Gumel of the Court of Appeal, Kano Division, highlighted her professionalism, integrity and dedication throughout her years on the bench.
Ekiti State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), also praised the retired judge, describing her as “an exceptional jurist and an accomplished lawyer.”
Apata said her career demonstrated that lawyers and judges could achieve excellence while maintaining professional standards. He further commended her commitment to public service and the development of the judiciary.
In her response, Omoleye expressed gratitude to God for seeing her through her judicial career. She reflected on how her years in service had deepened her understanding of law, humanity and responsibility.
She served as Ekiti State Chief Judge between 2003 and 2006 before moving to the Court of Appeal in June 2006. In September 2013, she became a Presiding Justice of the appellate court.
As she bowed out of active service, Omoleye said she was leaving with “gratitude and no regret.”
She described public office as a temporary trust rather than personal possession, stressing that “office is always larger than the occupant.”
The retired justice also acknowledged the support she received from Oyebanji, former Ekiti governor Niyi Adebayo and others during her career.
Among those who attended the valedictory session were Ondo State Deputy Governor Olayemi Adelami, Ekiti Assembly Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, former Nigerian Bar Association President Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), alongside other members of the legal profession.