Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, has committed to enhancing the trust of Nigerians in the judicial system. She emphasized that this endeavor is not solely her responsibility but a collective obligation of all citizens. “We aim to elevate the judiciary to unprecedented levels.
Our goal is to enhance its reputation and foster greater public confidence in its operations.
“I am convinced that this is not a task for one individual alone. It requires the involvement of everyone, as we all acknowledge the areas that necessitate improvement. I am optimistic about the cooperation we will achieve, as we all aspire for a more effective judiciary.”
Kekere-Ekun expressed these sentiments during her swearing-in ceremony as the 23rd acting Chief Justice of Nigeria at the State House in Abuja.
Additionally, she highlighted her intention to reform the appointment process for judicial officers, assuring that her tenure would yield a more robust judiciary. “We will place greater emphasis on the appointment process, which is a critical issue. This is one of the key areas we will tackle, and I strongly believe that, with divine assistance, by the conclusion of my tenure, we will have a judiciary that instills pride in all of us.
“An improved judiciary serves the interests of the entire nation; it is our responsibility as members of society to address the shortcomings we currently observe.”
To witness progress, it is essential that we each take responsibility for our individual contributions to justice. We must also maintain our confidence in the system, as emphasized by Kekere-Ekun.
On August 15, following its 106th meeting, the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended Kekere-Ekun to the President for the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), succeeding the outgoing Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
In its announcement, the council stated, “During its 106th meeting, chaired by Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who is stepping down today, the NJC has put forward Justice Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Tinubu for the role of CJN.” Kekere-Ekun takes over from Ariwoola, who began his tenure on June 27, 2022, and retired on Thursday upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.
At the age of 66, Kekere-Ekun is anticipated to serve until her retirement in 2028. She will assume her duties in an acting capacity until confirmed by the Senate. The event was graced by the President, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Chief of Staff to the President Mr. Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Boss Mustapha, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.
