by Kolapo Olapoju

On Friday, 24 October, the Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose did the unexpected, by swearing-in Justice Bamidele Omotoso, the man who headed his impeachment panel in 2006, as a judge of the state.

During the official swearing in ceremony of Omotoso, the governor said although some of his supporters urged him have his revenge, but he didn’t think it was necessary.

Fayose said, “Few days after my inauguration, some people came to me and reminded me of the role played by Omotoso during my impeachment saga. They said I should not swear him in as a judge of the state High Court. I am not here to revenge,vengeance belongs to God. If you want to report anybody to me bring the person here, otherwise I will invite the two of you.”

The Governor also said he was willing to work with the legislator and judiciary for the good of the state, adding that he had a warning from God to desist from vengeance.

“I plead with the other two arms of government that Ekiti should come first. You may not like my face and I may not like yours, but Ekiti should be number one. I am ready to work with the Assembly. I am a man of uncommon history, coming back to office after eight years is divine. I have a stern warning from God, do not avenge. There is nothing personal I have against the judiciary.”

“People would want to be where you are and life is about struggles. We need more judges and we will help in making them comfortable in the discharge of their duties.
There is need for fair hearing. I want the other arms of government to give my administration a fair hearing and the chance to perform,” he added.

While remarking on his swearing-in, Omotosho thanked the governor for the appointment, while promising to abide by his oath of office.

Fayose also announced the promotion of an official of the state Ministry of Justice, Lawrence Ojo, to position of Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry. Ojo was the official who signed his warrant of arrest papers at Ikoyi Prisons during his murder case.

Kolapo Olapoju