Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu on Friday swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), marking a pivotal moment in the country’s judiciary. Justice Kekere-Ekun, who is assuming the position in an acting capacity, becomes only the second woman in Nigeria’s history to hold the esteemed office of Chief Justice, following in the footsteps of Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar.
The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Council Chambers of the State House in Abuja, commencing at 11:38 AM. Justice Kekere-Ekun, having taken her oath of office, took her rightful seat to the left of President Tinubu at 11:45 AM, symbolizing her formal assumption of judicial leadership.
Her appointment follows the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and her nomination by the National Judicial Council (NJC) on August 15, 2024. Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation is not only a testament to her legal acumen but also a significant stride for gender representation in the highest echelons of Nigeria’s judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s tenure as the acting Chief Justice will be closely observed until her expected confirmation by the Nigerian Senate. Her confirmation would cement her role, reinforcing the judiciary’s role as a cornerstone of democracy and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.
Among the dignitaries who witnessed the historic event were prominent figures from the judiciary and government, including the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; House Leader, Hon Julius Ihonbvere; Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. The ceremony was further attended by key officials such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume; National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu; Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment is celebrated as a right step in the right direction for many, particularly in the promotion of gender equality within the judiciary. As she takes on her new responsibilities, there is widespread anticipation regarding the reforms and directions she will spearhead, especially given her profound legal expertise and commitment to justice.
Her judicial career, marked by several landmark rulings, has been a model of integrity and excellence, earning her widespread respect within the legal community. Justice Kekere-Ekun’s leadership is expected to bolster the confidence of Nigerians in the judiciary’s role as an impartial arbiter in the nation’s democratic processes.
As the nation embarks on this new chapter, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s tenure as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria will likely set a new tone for judicial independence, transparency, and justice in the country.
