By Lekan Sowande, Abuja
The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday screened and confirmed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
The development came after President Bola Tinubu wrote to the Senate on Tuesday, seeking the confirmation of Justice Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Justice Kekere-Ekun has been in the office in acting capacity since August 2024, following the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read President Tinubu’s letter during plenary on Tuesday, where President Tinubu cited Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers him to appoint the CJN based on recommendations from the National Judicial Council, pending Senate approval.
The president expressed confidence in her nomination and urged the Senate to act urgently.
“I hereby forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. I trust that this request will receive the Senate’s prompt consideration and approval,” President Tinubu stated in his message to the lawmakers.
Senate President Akpabio then referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for deliberation on the next legislative sitting.
While answering questions, Justice Kekere-Ekun vowed to ensure that petitions are dealt with speedily to foster integrity within the judiciary.
“I am known for integrity and discipline, I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured.
“There is a need to insulate the judiciary, push for better welfare for judicial officers to ensure they perform at their optimal. Appointment of Judicial officers will also be stringently done,” she added.
The Acting CJN also called for improvement in the laws to enhance the nations independence while underscoring the restriction in the number of cases presented to the Supreme Court.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) in August recommended Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to President Tinubu as successor to the former CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
The 66 years old Justice is the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria and the second Nigeria female jurist to serve in that position.
The first female to occupy the seat was Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, who was the CJN between July 2012 and November 2014.
Justice Kekere-Ekun was born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom.
Her journey in the legal profession commenced at the University of Lagos, where she obtained her first degree in law in 1980.
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