After a wait that kept Nigeria’s legal world on tenterhooks, President Bola Tinubu has finally sworn in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The ceremony took place at the Aso Rock Villa Governing Council on Monday, following the confirmation of her appointment by the Senate the previous week.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who became the 23rd CJN and only the second woman to hold the position in the country’s history, has already earned a solid reputation in the legal field. She had been acting as the acting Chief Justice since August, taking over from her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, following his retirement.
This transfer of power is of particular significance to Nigeria’s judiciary, reflecting the shift towards more diverse and inclusive representation at the highest levels of the judiciary. As the guardian of the Constitution and guarantor of the independence of the judiciary, the CJN occupies a crucial place in the checks and balances and the protection of the rights of citizens.
Justice Kekere-Ekun brings her remarkable vision and skills to guide the highest judicial body in the country through the current and future challenges. Her experience and commitment to fairness and the rule of law make her a key figure in strengthening public confidence in the judiciary.
In this new era for justice in Nigeria, the appointment of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun promises to break new ground and mark a significant step towards a more equitable and inclusive justice system for all Nigerians. The stakes are high and expectations are high, but history will remember this moment as a crucial milestone in the march towards a more just and democratic society.