Justice Afolabi Adeniran, Who Approved Ladoja’s Impeachment as Oyo Chief Judge, Dies at 87
Retired Justice Afolabi Adeniran, the former Chief Judge of Oyo State who made headlines in 2006 for approving the impeachment of Governor Rashidi Ladoja, has passed away at the age of 87.
His death was confirmed in a statement issued by Comrade T.M. Balogun, Public Relations Officer of Egbe Omo Ogbomoso Parapo Agbaaye, the global socio-cultural organisation he led for nearly a decade.
Justice Adeniran died on Sunday after a brief illness. His body has been deposited at a morgue in Ibadan, while his Iyaganku residence has turned into a centre of mourning as sympathisers pay tribute to the late jurist.
A seasoned legal mind, Justice Adeniran rose through the ranks of the judiciary after over 22 years in private legal practice. He served as Acting Chief Judge and subsequently as Chief Judge of Oyo State.
He is perhaps most remembered for his role in the political saga of 2006, when he gave legal backing to the controversial impeachment of Governor Rashidi Ladoja. Though his decision was later overturned by the Supreme Court, the episode remains one of the most notable moments in Oyo State’s political and judicial history.
After retirement, Justice Adeniran became President-General of Egbe Omo Ogbomoso Parapo Agbaaye, succeeding the late Mogaji Adisa Adeleye. Under his leadership, the organisation embarked on landmark projects, including the proposed Ajilete University, a passport office, and the Akintola Memorial Complex in Ogbomoso.
Known for his discipline, humility, and dedication to development, Adeniran also made headlines in April 2025 when he sanctioned a local chairman within the Parapo for misconduct, reaffirming his reputation for firm and principled leadership.
Born in Ogbomoso in August 1942, he is survived by wives, children, and grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family soon.
Legal practitioners, political leaders, and community stakeholders have continued to mourn his death, describing him as a man of uncommon integrity and service.
“He was a jurist who stood by his convictions, whether in court or in community service. His legacy will endure,” said a former member of the Oyo State Judicial Council.
