Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; former Ekiti State governors, Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo and Dr Kayode Fayemi; and human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), have celebrated the judicial legacy, professional integrity and exemplary service of retired Court of Appeal Justice Oyebisi Folayemi Omoleye on her 70th birthday and retirement.
They spoke at a ceremony held in Lagos in honour of Justice Omoleye, who became the first female judge and the first female Chief Judge of Ekiti State before her elevation to the Court of Appeal.
Governor Aiyedatiwa described her landmark judgments, some of which have been documented in law reports and books and upheld by the Supreme Court, as enduring references for younger legal practitioners.
Although her elevation to the Supreme Court did not materialise, the governor said her contributions to the judiciary remained significant, urging her to continue sharing her wealth of experience with younger colleagues.
Recalling their first encounter when he was deputy governor of Ondo State and she was the Presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal in the state, Aiyedatiwa said Justice Omoleye personally introduced herself to him at an event, demonstrating humility despite her position.
He commended her contributions to Ondo State and Nigeria, noting that she had served in various judicial capacities and was subsequently returned to the state after being deployed elsewhere.
The governor added that her permanent residence in Akure remained a strong link to Ondo State, while congratulating her on her 70th birthday and retirement and wishing her continued good health and fulfilment.
In his remarks, Falana urged the Ekiti State Government to procure and distribute legal publications authored by Justice Alaba Omolaye-Ajileye to schools across the state to inspire students.
The Senior Advocate of Nigeria said celebrating accomplished indigenes would encourage young people to pursue academic and professional excellence.
He cited Ekiti State’s history of producing trailblazers, including pioneers in mathematics, religion and education, adding that the celebrant had joined the ranks of the state’s distinguished achievers.
Falana called on the government to stock school libraries with copies of the jurist’s books to motivate students to strive for excellence.
Former Ekiti State Governor, Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo, recalled the circumstances surrounding the appointment of the state’s first female Chief Judge, Justice Raliat Omoleye, describing it as a decision he remained proud of.
He said the appointment was based on merit and integrity despite considerable pressure, adding that his administration worked with her for only a few months before leaving office.
Adebayo recalled that travelling from Lagos to Ado-Ekiti could take up to six hours at the time, explaining that his administration had deliberately sought competent leadership for the judiciary.
He added that colleagues and classmates had commended her tenure for professional excellence and the preservation of judicial independence, while praying for her continued good health and longevity.
In his goodwill message, former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, reflected on the state’s political history, leadership succession and the challenges that had shaped governance.
Describing himself humorously as a teacher in the business of state administration, Fayemi said earlier political leaders had the advantage of making critical decisions, while succeeding generations had to contend with their own political battles.
He recalled past political challenges and legal appeals, expressing gratitude that the progressive political fold had weathered the storm and prevented key talents from being lost to the bench.
Fayemi also expressed pride that his daughter was subsequently appointed a High Court judge in Ekiti State.
He urged current leaders to sustain unity and preserve the progressive vision in the state.
The ceremony attracted former and serving political leaders, judicial officers and other dignitaries, who celebrated Justice Omoleye’s professional milestones and contributions to the judiciary.
