Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has described retired Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Olukayode Ariwoola, as a pride of the state and a man of integrity who served the judiciary with distinction.
The governor made the statement during a special retirement prayer and thanksgiving event in Iseyin, Oyo State, to honour the retired justice.
Speaking through his deputy, Bayo Lawal, Governor Makinde praised Ariwoola’s meritorious service in the judiciary, highlighting his rise from the High Court to the Supreme Court, and eventually becoming the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
He stated, “Let’s take it this way. First and foremost, to really ascend through the judiciary from the High Court to the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court, and not only to serve in the Supreme Court but to become the CJN is a real privilege that comes with integrity and good character. So, it’s a joy for us.
“Now, in the state, Ariwoola is the only Justice who has become Chief Justice of Nigeria to my memory, so for us in this state, his retirement calls for celebration.
“He retired meritoriously, and what you have seen is a testament to the fact that he performed creditably well as a judge and as CJN, to the extent that virtually all Justices of the Supreme Court are here in attendance to honour him.
“So, to me, it’s a joy for us in this state, a joy for the family of Ariwoola, and a joy for the judiciary in the state. We are celebrating,” he added.
The occasion was also graced by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who commended Ariwoola’s leadership and positive contributions to the judiciary.
In a sermon, the National Missioner of the Istjabah group, Ashiru Kolawole, urged Justice Ariwoola to be thankful for his unblemished tenure and encouraged him to draw closer to Allah.
Justice Ariwoola, born on August 22, 1954, was appointed the substantive CJN on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of former CJN Tanko Muhammed. He retired on August 22, 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
The event was attended by Justices from the Supreme and Appeal Courts, Oyo State Chief Judge Iyabo Yerima, members of the legal profession, state officials, and other dignitaries.
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