President Bola Tinubu, on Monday, 30th September, swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd CJN at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
It would be recalled that the Nigerian Senate last Wednesday, confirmed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the highest-ranking justice of the Supreme Court, as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
She received confirmation following a rigorous two-hour question-and-answer session with senators.
She had been serving in this role on an acting basis since August, when Justice Olukayode Ariwoola retired from the post.
President Bola Tinubu assured the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, that there will be no interference in the decision-making and processes of the judiciary.
”The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.
”Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.
”For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.
”While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us.
”We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy,’‘ the President said.
President Tinubu reiterated his government’s dedication to improving judicial officers’ welfare and working conditions, noting recent decisions to enhance their effectiveness in administering justice.
He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty that have defined her career.
”The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow,’‘ he said.
The President lauded Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise as a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated profession.
”This day has also cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating, ” Tinubu added.
President Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and other family members led by Akin Kekere-Ekun, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s husband.
Her confirmation follows a request to the lawmakers by President Tinubu.
Speaking during her screening, Kekere-Ekun, vowed to ensure that petitions are dealt with speedily to foster integrity within the judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, a 1974 Queens College Alumnus and a Life Bencher, pledged to do her best and uphold the integrity of the judiciary, the rule of law and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.
She also advocated for better legislation to boost the country’s autonomy, while highlighting the need to limit the volume of cases that terminates at the Supreme Court.
She specifically recommended that all cases related to elections conclude at the Court of Appeal.
She believed that improving behaviour during elections is crucial to eliminate the necessity of constantly going to court.
The ceremony occurred at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja. Four former chief justices of the Federation, including the first female Justice, Aloma Mukhtar, were present at the ceremony.
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