In a historic ceremony held at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu officially swore in Justice Kekere-Ekun as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and several ministers, including; Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and Minister of Special Duties, Zephaniah Jisalo. Four former chief justices of the Federation, including the first female Justice, Aloma Mukhtar, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other heads of the judiciary divisions, were also in attendance.
President Tinubu underscored the vital role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
”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 reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, highlighting recent initiatives aimed at enhancing the judiciary’s efficiency in delivering justice.
He called on Justice Kekere-Ekun to maintain her track record of ethical leadership, courage, and integrity as she assumes her role as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
”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.
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President Tinubu praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s ascent to the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria, describing it as a testament to her dedication and hard work. He noted that her achievement serves as a powerful source of inspiration for women, especially young girls, in a profession traditionally dominated by men..
”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, ” he said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation follows her approval by the Nigerian Senate last week. She had previously served as the acting CJN after the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola in August.
Born on May 7, 1958, in London, Justice Kekere-Ekun becomes the second woman to hold the position of Chief Justice in Nigeria, following the trailblazing Justice Alooma Mukhtar. Her distinguished legal career began with a law degree from the University of Lagos in 1980, followed by her call to the Nigerian Bar in 1981. She later earned a Master of Law from the prestigious London School of Economics in 1983.
Her judicial journey began in Lagos State, where she served as a Senior Magistrate before ascending to various judicial roles, including Judge of the High Court and Justice of the Court of Appeal. She was appointed to the Supreme Court in June 2013, showcasing her extensive experience and dedication to justice.
Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation is seen as a pivotal step towards enhancing judicial integrity and independence in Nigeria. Legal experts and advocates have lauded her appointment as a positive development for the country’s legal system, emphasizing her commitment to upholding justice and fairness.
This landmark appointment marks a significant moment in Nigeria’s judiciary, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer in the nation’s legal history.
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