Oyedepo Assumes Office as DPP, Pledges Evidence-Based and Independent Prosecutions

Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo, SAN, has formally assumed office as the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), reaffirming his commitment to an evidence-based, independent, and law-driven prosecution system in Nigeria. The newly appointed DPP emphasized that his leadership will be anchored on professionalism, constitutional compliance, and unwavering respect for the rule of law.

Oyedepo expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Attorney-General of the Federation for entrusting him with the responsibility, describing the appointment as a weighty national duty rather than a personal milestone. He noted that the volume of goodwill messages, prayers, and congratulatory remarks he received since the announcement of his appointment was both humbling and motivating.

According to him, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions is central to the integrity of Nigeria’s criminal justice framework, and its responsibilities must be discharged with utmost sincerity and independence. He stated that his assumption of office comes at a crucial period when the nation’s justice system requires renewed public confidence and institutional credibility.

“I am sincerely grateful for the overwhelming goodwill, prayers, and messages of support following my appointment as Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation,” Oyedepo stated, emphasizing that the role demands service, sacrifice, and accountability to the Nigerian people.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria also acknowledged the critical role played by mentors, professional colleagues at both the Bar and the Bench, law enforcement agencies, civil society groups, as well as friends and family members who supported him throughout his legal career. He described their encouragement and guidance as foundational to his professional growth and preparedness for the role.

Oyedepo explained that his appointment should be viewed as a renewed call to strengthen Nigeria’s prosecution framework at a time when public trust, judicial efficiency, and legal integrity are increasingly under scrutiny. He stressed that the responsibilities attached to the office must be approached with reform-oriented leadership and a deep sense of national service.

“This appointment represents a solemn call to service. I am fully committed to reinforcing public prosecution in Nigeria in a manner that responds effectively to current national realities while preparing the system for future demands,” he said.

Outlining his strategic focus, Oyedepo identified prosecutorial independence, professional discipline, operational efficiency, and strict adherence to constitutional provisions as key pillars of his tenure. He noted that the legitimacy of the justice system depends largely on the credibility, objectivity, and transparency of prosecutorial actions.

He assured Nigerians that under his leadership, decisions on prosecution would be strictly guided by the law, available evidence, and the broader public interest, without interference from external or political considerations. According to him, fairness, diligence, and integrity will remain the guiding principles of the office.

“Every prosecutorial decision taken under my leadership will be determined solely by the law, the strength of evidence, and the public interest, firmly anchored on fairness, diligence, and integrity,” he affirmed.

The new DPPF further highlighted the importance of institutional cooperation, stating that effective public prosecution cannot function in isolation. He expressed optimism about fostering productive relationships with stakeholders across government institutions and beyond, noting that collaboration is essential for building a resilient and credible justice system.

“I look forward to constructive engagement and collaboration with all relevant stakeholders as we collectively work towards building a strong, credible, and future-ready public prosecution system for Nigeria,” he concluded.