Olukayode Ariwoola, the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria, was hailed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Saturday as a man of integrity and a source of pride for the state, having served the judiciary with distinction and without fault.
He revealed this during a unique retirement prayer and gratitude ceremony honouring the legal legend that was conducted in Iseyin, in the state’s Iseyin Local Government Area. Declaring that Ariwoola’s retirement was a reason for joy, Governor Makinde was represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal. Makinde emphasised Ariwoola’s excellent work as a Justice of the Supreme Court.
“Let’s take it this way,” he said. First and foremost, it is an honour that comes with honesty and good character to actually rise through the judicial ranks from the High Court to the Court of Appeal to the Supreme Court, and not only to serve on the Supreme Court but also to become the Chief Justice of the Nation. So, we are happy with it.
To the best of my memory, Ariwoola is the only justice in the state to have been appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria, hence we in this state should celebrate his retirement.The fact that almost every Justice of the Supreme Court is present to honour him speaks volumes about how well he performed both as a judge and as CJN. He retired with distinction, and what you have seen is evidence of that.
Thus, in my opinion, it’s a pleasure for all of us in this state, the Ariwoola family, and the state judiciary. We’re having a celebration,” he said. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Justice of Nigeria and chair of the event, thanked Justice Ariwoola in her speech for being a good leader who had a beneficial impact on the judiciary.
Earlier, the celebrant was exhorted to be grateful to Allah for his spotless tenure in such a distinguished post by Ashiru Kolawole, the National Missioner of the Istjabah group. He was also encouraged to become closer to Allah and observe the five daily prayers as prescribed by Islam.
Born on August 22, 1954, Ariwoola became the substantive Chief Justice of the Philippines on June 27, 2022, after prior Chief Justice Tanko Muhammad resigned. On September 21, 2022, the Senate formally approved him as the 22nd CJN. On August 22, 2024, he reached the necessary age of 70 and retired from active duty.
Justices from the Supreme and Appellate Courts, Oyo State Chief Judge Iyabo Yerima, members of the national Bar and Bench, state cabinet officials, business titans, religious leaders, royal fathers, and family and friends were all in attendance.
