Tinubu Swears In Justice Kekere-Ekun As Acting CJN

On Friday, President Bola Tinubu officially sworn-in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), pending the approval of the Senate.

This swearing-in event took place following President Tinubu’s return to Abuja on Friday after a brief work trip to France.

The President was reported to have arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in the early hours of Friday, having departed for France on Monday.

Having shortened his visit, President Tinubu is set to formally swear in Justice Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria this morning at the Council Chambers in the State House.

Justice Kekere-Ekun will take over from Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired on Thursday upon reaching the age of 70.

Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, shared this information in a statement on Thursday, noting that the President also extended his congratulations to Justice Ariwoola, recognizing his tenure in the judiciary as a commendable public service career and expressing gratitude for his contributions to the nation.

“President Bola Tinubu congratulates Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, as he retires as Chief Justice of Nigeria after a successful public service career,” the statement read.

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

“President Tinubu will swear in Justice Ariwoola’s successor at the State House Council Chambers on August 23, 2024.

“President Tinubu commends the eminent jurist for his services to the nation, noting his impactful leadership of the judiciary and his efforts in enriching Nigerian jurisprudence, as well as in strengthening the fibre of the law.”

Justice Ariwoola previously held the position of Justice of the Court of Appeal across the divisions in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos before his appointment to the Supreme Court in 2011.

He was officially sworn in as the Chief Justice of Nigeria on September 21, 2022, by former President Muhammadu Buhari, and has contributed to the nation in various judicial roles.

Recently, the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun to President Tinubu as Justice Ariwoola’s successor.

This announcement was made by NJC spokesman Soji Oye, following the Council’s 106th Meeting, which was chaired by Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

“This is imperative as Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, will formally bow out of office as the Hon. Chief Justice of Nigeria next week Thursday, 22 August 2024,” the statement read.

The Supreme Court is presently composed of a full roster of 21 Justices. In accordance with the established traditions of the court, the next most senior Justice will assume the role of Chief Justice.

According to the court’s hierarchy, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun holds the position of the most senior Justice, making her the likely successor to Justice Ariwoola.

Key Information About Justice Kekere-Ekun

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun stands out as one of the leading female Justices in the nation’s highest court.

At 66 years of age, she was born on May 7, 1958. She earned her law degree from the University of Lagos and was admitted to the Nigerian bar in 1981.

Following this, she pursued an LL.M. at the London School of Economics and Political Science, which she completed in November 1983.

Justice Kekere-Ekun began her legal career in Lagos as a private practitioner from 1985 to 1989.

In December 1989, she was appointed as a Senior Magistrate Grade II within the Lagos State Judiciary. She subsequently became a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State on July 19, 1996, and served as the Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja, Lagos from November 1996 until May 1999.

On September 22, 2004, she was elevated to the Court of Appeal, where she served in various Divisions and presided over two Divisions (Makurdi & Akure).

Justice Kekere-Ekun was appointed to the Supreme Court of Nigeria as its fifth female Justice, taking her oath of office on July 8, 2013.

The incoming Chief Justice of Nigeria has participated in numerous courses and seminars both domestically and internationally, and has received several accolades for her contributions.

She is currently a life Bencher and serves as a member of the International Association of Women Judges, where she holds the position of President.

Justice Kekere-Ekun is happily married and is a mother.