Human Rights Lawyer, Adeyanju Hails Tinubu’s Appointment of Rotimi Oyedepo as DPP
By Ahmad Tijjani Abdul
KANO – Human rights lawyer and public affairs commentator, Deji Adeyanju, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), describing the decision as a positive signal for justice sector reform and adherence to the rule of law.
In a public statement released on Thursday, Adeyanju praised the President for what he described as a merit-based appointment to one of the most sensitive offices in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.
He said the choice of Oyedepo reflects a commitment to professionalism and due process at a time when public confidence in prosecutions requires rebuilding.
In his words, “I commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo as Director of Public Prosecutions”.
Adeyanju said, noted that the office of the DPP plays a critical role in safeguarding fairness and legality in criminal proceedings.
Adeyanju highlighted Oyedepo’s reputation for independence and professional integrity, arguing that these qualities are essential for an office that operates at the intersection of law, politics, and public accountability. According to him, the DPP must be insulated from undue influence to function effectively.
“Mr. Oyedepo’s demonstrated independence of mind makes him well-suited for a role that sits at the heart of the rule of law,” Adeyanju stated.
“The credibility of public prosecutions depends largely on the character and courage of the individual entrusted with that responsibility.”
He further observed that by appointing a seasoned legal practitioner and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, the President has shown that reform within the justice sector can be driven by competence rather than political expediency.
“By entrusting such a sensitive office to a seasoned professional, the President has shown that reform of the justice sector can be driven by capacity and respect for due process,” Adeyanju said, adding that such decisions set an important precedent for future appointments.
Adeyanju expressed optimism that the appointment, if backed by institutional support and consistency, could strengthen the credibility of public prosecutions and reinforce accountability within the legal system.
“It is a step in the right direction and one that, if sustained, can help restore faith in public prosecutions as a tool for justice,” he noted.
Adeyanju described the appointment as worthy of public praise, urging the administration to continue prioritising integrity and professionalism in key legal and governance institutions. “This appointment deserves to be applauded”.