The Senate confirmed the appointment of Justice Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria after conducting her screening. This decision follows a formal request from President Bola Tinubu, who reached out to the Senate on Tuesday to urge them to approve Kekere-Ekun’s nomination.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio read the letter from President Tinubu during the plenary session on Tuesday. In this correspondence, Tinubu referenced Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which grants him the authority to appoint the Chief Justice based on recommendations from the National Judicial Council, pending Senate approval.
In his letter, the President expressed his confidence in Justice Kekere-Ekun’s capabilities and urged the Senate to act swiftly on her nomination. He emphasized the importance of timely consideration to ensure a smooth transition in the judiciary.
“I hereby forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. I trust that this request will receive the Senate’s prompt consideration and approval,” Tinubu stated in his message to the Senate.
Following the reading of the letter, Senate President Akpabio referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for further deliberation during the next legislative sitting. This step is crucial for facilitating discussions and gathering insights before the final decision.
It is noteworthy that the National Judicial Council (NJC) had recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun to President Tinubu as the successor to the former Chief Justice, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, back in August. This recommendation highlights the NJC’s role in ensuring qualified candidates are put forward for such significant positions.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who is 66 years old, has been serving as the Acting Chief Justice since Justice Ariwoola’s retirement last month. Her confirmation marks a significant moment for the Nigerian judiciary as she steps into a pivotal leadership role.
Who is Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun?
Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun is a prominent figure in the Nigerian judiciary, recognized as one of the leading female Justices on the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Born on May 7, 1958, she is currently 66 years old and has made significant contributions to the legal landscape in the country.
Justice Kekere-Ekun began her academic journey by earning a law degree from the University of Lagos, where she laid the foundation for her illustrious career. She was called to the bar in 1981, marking the official start of her professional journey in law.
In addition to her initial degree, she pursued further education and obtained an LL.M. from the prestigious London School of Economics and Political Science in November 1983. This advanced degree equipped her with a deeper understanding of legal principles and enhanced her expertise.
Her legal career commenced in Lagos, southwest Nigeria, where she quickly rose through the ranks. In December 1989, she was appointed as a Senior Magistrate Grade II in the Lagos State Judiciary, showcasing her capabilities and dedication to justice.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career continued to flourish as she became a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State in July 1996. Her commitment to upholding the law and ensuring fair trials earned her respect within the legal community.
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From November 1996 to May 1999, she served as the Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja, Lagos. This role further solidified her reputation as a competent and fair adjudicator in complex legal matters.
In September 2004, Justice Kekere-Ekun was elevated to the Court of Appeal, and on June 8, 2013, she was appointed to the Supreme Court of Nigeria. Beyond her judicial responsibilities, she enjoys reading, music, information technology, and counseling, reflecting her diverse interests outside the courtroom.
Past Chief Justices of Nigeria
Hon. Justice Stafford Foster Sutton – 1955-1958
Hon. Justice Adetokunbo Ademola – 1958-1972
Hon. Justice Taslim Olawale Elias – 1972–1975
Hon. Justice Darnley Arthur Alexander- 1975–1979
Hon. Justice Atanda Fatai-Williams – 1979- 1983
Hon. Justice George Sodeinde Sowemimo – 1983–1985
Hon. Justice Ayo Gabriel lrikefe – 1985–1987
Hon. Justice Muhammed Bello – 1987–1995
Hon. Justice Muhammadu Lawal Uwais- 1995–2006
Hon. Justice Salisu Modibo Alfa Belgore – 2006–2007
Hon. Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi – 2007–2009
Hon. Justice Aloysius Iyorgyer Katsina-Alu – 2009–2011
Hon. Justice Dahiru Musdapher – 2011–2012
Hon. Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar – 2012–2014
Hon. Justice Mahmud Mohammed – 2014–2016
Hon. Justice W. S. Nkanu Onnoghen – 2016- 2019
Source National Judicial Council
