KEKERE EKUN CONFIRMED AS CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA
The Nigerian Senate has confirmed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria.
She is the 23rd person to hold this esteemed position and the second female to do so.
This confirmation followed a request from President Bola Tinubu, who nominated her for the role.
The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, suspended its rules to allow her to answer questions during the confirmation hearing.
During the screening process, lawmakers questioned her on various judicial matters.
She emphasized the importance of maintaining judicial integrity and adhering to ethical standards.
Justice Kekere-Ekun argued that there should be limits on cases reaching the Supreme Court, particularly regarding pre-election matters.
She stressed that such cases should conclude at the Court of Appeal.
Additionally, she highlighted the need for timely handling of petitions by the National Judicial Council. Justice Kekere-Ekun also called for measures to insulate the judiciary from external influences.
After nearly three hours of questioning, the Senate voted in favour of her confirmation.
Before this appointment, Justice Kekere-Ekun had been acting as CJN since August 23, following Justice Kayode Ariwoola’s retirement. She has served as a Supreme Court Justice since 2013 and is recognized for her significant contributions to Nigeria’s judiciary