The Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters on Thursday screened Justice Olubunmi Kayode Oyewole, a nominee to the Supreme Court, following the vacancy created by the retirement of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kayode Ariwoola.
Justice Oyewole appeared before the committee with a 31-page curriculum vitae as part of the constitutional process required for the confirmation of presidential nominees to the apex court.
During the session, members of the committee posed questions on key legal issues, including the Electoral Act, constitutional amendments, and the broader interpretation of laws that shape Nigeria’s legal and judicial procedures.
Lawmakers said the line of questioning was aimed at assessing the nominee’s depth of legal knowledge, judicial philosophy, and understanding of evolving legal frameworks that could come before the Supreme Court.
In his comment, the Distinguished Senator who represents the good people of Osun Central Senatorial District, Senator (Dr) Ajagunnla Olubiyi Oluwole Fadeyi lauds the virtues of the nominee, Hon. Justice Joseph Olubunmi Kayode Oyewole.
In a special letter made available to Igbomina Today News Magazine, Fadeyi stated, “the recent elevation of Honourable Justice Joseph Olubunmi Oyewole from the Federal Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court of Justice of Nigeria is a moment of profound pride, not only for the judiciary but for the entire Nigerian nation. It is, without doubt, a decision that reflects wisdom, foresight, and a deep commitment to strengthening the pillars of justice in our dear country.
Justice Oyewole is an illustrious son of Ila-Orangun in Osun State, (the ancestral home of our patriarch, the National Leader of All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief (Dr) Adebisi Bamdele Akande, CFR. His life and career have consistently embodied the highest ideals of integrity, diligence, and service. Over the years, he has distinguished himself as an incorruptible and uncompromising jurist, serving with uncommon courage and clarity of conscience in Lagos State High Court and at the Federal Court of Appeal across several states of the federation. In every assignment entrusted to him, he upheld the rule of law without fear or favour, earning respect across the legal profession and beyond. Fadeyi stressed
Sen. Ajagunnla Olubiyi Fadeyi further stated that Hon. Justice Olubunmi Oyewole’s judicial journey has been marked by sound judgments, intellectual depth, and an unwavering commitment to justice. He has demonstrated that the law is not merely a profession but a sacred trust—one that must be exercised with humility, fairness, and moral courage.
Indeed, it may be humbly and confidently stated that Oyewole’s elevation to the Supreme Court is a right decision, truly a case of putting the round peg in the round hole. Nigeria could not have made a better choice at this critical time when the nation yearns for justice that is principled, impartial, and anchored on truth.
Honourable Justice Joseph Olubunmi Oyewole stands today as a ray of hope for Nigerian society and a beacon of reassurance that integrity still has a place in public service. His presence on the Supreme Court bench is not only a blessing to the judiciary but also a profound blessing to our dear fatherland.
May his tenure at the apex court further strengthen justice, deepen public confidence in the judiciary, and leave an enduring legacy for generations yet unborn. Fadeyi concluded.
Justice Oyewole, a respected jurist, responded to questions bordering on judicial independence, constitutional supremacy, and the role of the judiciary in deepening democracy and upholding the rule of law.
The screening forms part of the Senate’s oversight responsibility to ensure that nominees to the nation’s highest court possess the competence, integrity, and experience required for the role.
The vacancy at the Supreme Court arose following the retirement of Justice Ariwoola, who served as Chief Justice of Nigeria until reaching the mandatory retirement age.
The committee is expected to submit its report and recommendation to the full Senate for confirmation in plenary.
