The swearing-in ceremony will be presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
Dr. Festus Akande, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Supreme Court, said the appointment underscores the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, strengthening the bench, and ensuring the delivery of justice with integrity and competence.
According to Akande, Justice Oyewole brings a wealth of legal expertise and experience to the Supreme Court, further enhancing 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 stated.
He also urged invited guests to strictly adhere to court protocols and security measures, reaffirming that the Supreme Court remains committed to justice, fairness, and judicial independence.
Distinguished Judicial Career
Before his elevation, Justice Oyewole served as a Justice of the Court of Appeal and Presiding Justice of its Enugu Division. His appointment to the apex court was announced last month by the National Judicial Council during its 110th meeting held between January 13 and 14, 2026, chaired by the CJN.
Born on May 13, 1965, in Ila Orangun, Osun State, Justice Oyewole received his education across Ogun, Oyo, Osun, and Lagos States.
He was appointed a judge of the Lagos State High Court on May 24, 2001, before being elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2014.
Landmark Judgments
Justice Oyewole is widely regarded as one of the most outstanding jurists on the bench. He played a significant role in reforms surrounding the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).
Among his notable rulings:
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He upheld the sacking of Senator-elect Peter Nwaoboshi, describing the appeal as lacking in merit.
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In 2009, he sentenced Chief Bode George to prison over corruption charges linked to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA). The conviction was later quashed in 2013 by the Supreme Court in a decision led by Justice John Afolabi Fabiyi, which ruled that the charges of “contract splitting” were legally insufficient.
Justice Oyewole’s track record of landmark judgments at the Lagos State High Court earned him elevation to the Court of Appeal and now to Nigeria’s highest judicial bench.
