Tinubu New CJN Kekere-Ekun: Uphold Constitution, Judicial Integrity

In a significant and solemn ceremony held in Abuja, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially swore in Justice Kudirat Motonmori Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun as the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Friday, August 23.

This historic event marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s judiciary, following the retirement of Justice Kayode Ariwoola.

During his address, President Tinubu lauded Justice Ariwoola for his exemplary service to the nation, stating, “Our country owes Honourable Justice Ariwoola a debt of gratitude for his outstanding contributions to the administration of justice.”

He emphasized the importance of continuity and expressed confidence in Justice Kekere-Ekun’s ability to lead the judiciary with distinction.

President Tinubu highlighted the new CJN’s impressive legal career, describing her as a jurist with an “admirable family and professional pedigree.”

He praised her rise through the ranks, noting that “her meteoric rise from the Magistracy to Justice of the Supreme Court is a testament to her exceptional talent, hard work, unblemished record, strong work ethic, and dedication to her calling as a priest in the temple of justice.”

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment, according to President Tinubu, is not just a professional milestone but also a significant moment for gender representation in Nigeria’s judiciary.

“Justice Kekere-Ekun is a brilliant lawyer who was called to the bar in 1981. She is now a trailblazer, becoming the second woman to hold this esteemed position after Hon. Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar,” he said.

He added that her ascension is “a beacon of hope for young women who aspire to break the glass ceiling and make a meaningful impact on our society.”

Reflecting on the role of the judiciary in Nigeria’s democratic evolution, President Tinubu emphasized the Supreme Court’s pivotal contributions to national development.

He quoted late Justice Thurgood Marshall, stating, “The Constitution is not a static document, but rather a living instrument that must be adapted to the changing needs of society.”

He pointed out that the Supreme Court, like its American counterpart, plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution and shaping public policies that impact all segments of Nigerian society.

The President also highlighted recent strides made to bolster the judiciary under his administration, citing the approval of a 300% increase in the remuneration of judicial officers and the appointment of 11 Justices to the Supreme Court in December 2023.

“This consideration informed the expedited passage by the National Assembly and my consent to the Judicial Office Holders Act, 2024,” he noted, adding that these measures ensure the Supreme Court now has its full complement of 21 Justices for the first time in decades.

President Tinubu underscored the immense responsibilities that come with the position of CJN, urging Justice Kekere-Ekun to exercise her duties with utmost integrity.

“The occupant of the office must exude the highest level of integrity in the discharge of duties,” he stated, recognizing the significant influence and finality that the Supreme Court’s decisions hold in the nation’s legal system.

In his final charge to the new Acting CJN, President Tinubu called for unwavering loyalty to the Constitution and a commitment to judicial independence.

“I therefore urge your lordship to be faithful and loyal to the Constitution when discharging your duties as acting Chief Justice of Nigeria. I also encourage you to defend the judiciary’s independence, always promote the course of justice, strengthen mechanisms for integrity, discipline, and transparency in the judicial sector, and pursue other reforms or initiatives to sustain public confidence in the judiciary,” he advised.

The President concluded his speech by thanking those in attendance and expressing hope that this moment would inspire collective efforts toward building a prosperous nation where justice prevails.

“May this moment inspire us all to strive for excellence in pursuing a prosperous nation where justice will always reign,” he said.

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment has been met with both anticipation and high expectations as she steps into her role during a critical period in Nigeria’s judicial history.

As the second woman to ever hold the position of CJN, her tenure is expected to have a profound impact on the judiciary’s direction in the years to come.