In an update published by Premium Times, President Bola Tinubu has formally requested the Senate to confirm the appointment of Justice Olubunmi Oyewole as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. The nomination follows a recommendation by the National Judicial Council (NJC) and is intended to fill the vacancy left by the retirement of the former Chief Justice, Olukayode Ariwoola. Justice Oyewole, who currently serves in the Court of Appeal, is widely regarded for his judicial experience and previous high-profile rulings.
If confirmed, the appointment will bring the Supreme Court bench closer to its full constitutional complement of 21 justices. This move is seen as a critical step in reducing the massive backlog of cases that has plagued the apex court for years. The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has referred the nomination to the Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, and Legal Matters for immediate screening.
ThisDay reported on the constitutional significance of the move, noting that “the appointment restores the South-west geo-political zone’s representation on the bench.” Daily Post also highlighted the NJC’s role, quoting a judicial officer who said, “This nomination is a boost for the efficiency of the highest court in the land.”
Echotitbits take: Filling the Supreme Court bench is a technical necessity that has been delayed for too long. A full complement of justices is essential for the timely delivery of justice, especially as the country approaches the next political cycle.
Source: BusinessDay – https://businessday.ng/news/article/tinubu-seeks-senate-confirmation-of-oyewole-as-justice-of-supreme-court/ January 28, 2026
Photo Credit: BusinessDay
