Yahaya Bello swears in Richard Olorunfemi as substantive Kogi CJ

Richard Olorunfemi has been sworn in as the substantive chief judge of Kogi state.

Yahaya Bello, governor of the state, also swore in Isiaka Momoh-Jimoh as president of the customary court of appeal.

Delivering his address at the ceremony on Thursday, Bello who was represented by Edward Onoja, deputy governor, charged the judges to uphold their offices with the fear of God.

The governor affirmed that the two judges possess the education, experience, and character to discharge their duties effectively.

He said the state is fortunate to have found “worthy incumbents” for the two most critical offices in Kogi judiciary.

He enjoined them to bring their “considerable history as experienced jurists” to bear in the administration of justice in the state.

Bello said the ease with which they scaled through the processes leading up their swearing-in, including screening and confirmation at the state house of assembly, is proof that his administration respects the legal and seniority principles set by the constitution.

Olorunfemi was appointed as acting chief judge in March 2021 following the death of Nasir Ajanah.