The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has vowed to uphold integrity in the judiciary by implementing a zero-tolerance policy on corruption.
She reaffirmed that an unwavering commitment to integrity and a strict adherence to the law form the foundation of her judicial approach.
Kekere-Ekun, who appeared before the Senate for screening, assured lawmakers that, once confirmed, she would prioritize the speedy handling of petitions before the courts.
She declared during the session that the Court of Appeal must resolve all pre-election matters.
Responding to questions from the senators, the acting CJN promised to ensure that the judiciary remains insulated from external influence.
Additionally, she committed to advocating for better welfare and infrastructure for the judiciary.
Kekere-Ekun also highlighted the need for strengthening national institutions and ensuring better behavior from the populace, especially during elections.
She stressed that such improvements would help reduce the tendency to contest election results in court.
Before the screening began on Wednesday, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele successfully moved to prioritize Justice Kekere-Ekun’s screening by reordering the legislative agenda, with Deputy Minority Leader Oyewumi Olalere offering swift support.
Sen. Olalere Oyewumi seconded Sen. Bamidele’s motion to invoke Order 12 of the Senate’s Standing Orders, allowing her and her entourage to enter.
Kekere-Ekun, accompanied by other Supreme Court and Court of Appeal justices, arrived at the Senate Chamber at 12:30 PM.
The Acting CJN was led into the Chamber by Sen. Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters.
Persecondnews recalls that President Bola Tinubu wrote to the Senate on Tuesday, seeking confirmation of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as Nigeria’s Chief Justice.
The president’s letter, read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was submitted upon the Senate’s return from its annual recess, which began in July.
The letter read: “Pursuant to Section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), which gives the President the power to appoint the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC) and subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as CJN.
“I hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration of the Senate. Please accept, distinguished Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”
According to Persecondnews, Tinubu swore in Justice Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria at the State House in Abuja on August 23, 2024.
Until the Senate confirms her, she will serve in an acting capacity.
Justice Kekere-Ekun took her oath at 11:38 a.m. and became the second female to hold the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria, after Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar (CJN from July 2012 to November 2014).
Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Kekere-Ekun embarked on her illustrious legal career at the University of Lagos, graduating with a law degree in 1980.
After completing her studies at the Nigerian Law School, she took her oath and received her call to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981.
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