Tinubu Officially Swears In Justice Kekere-Ekun As Nigeria’s Second Female Chief Justice....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Monday, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirming his administration’s commitment to maintaining the independence and integrity of the judiciary.

Justice Kekere-Ekun, only the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, took office following her Senate confirmation. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja.

The event was attended by four former Chief Justices, including Nigeria’s first female CJN, Aloma Mukhtar, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other key judiciary leaders.

President Tinubu emphasized the judiciary’s crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, stating, “The judiciary is a fundamental pillar supporting our constitutional democracy. Throughout history, it has consistently acted as a moderating force, ensuring accountability and fairness.”

Read Also:https://nivonews.com/2024/09/30/imo-state-denies-reports-of-new-fg-established-idp-camp/

He further highlighted the judiciary’s position as the “last hope of the common man,” reinforcing public confidence in democracy by providing avenues for redress when injustices occur.

The President affirmed his administration’s dedication to preserving judicial independence, saying, “While our government may work alongside the judiciary, I am committed to respecting the distinct separation between the two branches. We will never interfere with the judiciary’s autonomy, as this is vital for sustaining constitutional democracy.”

Additionally, Tinubu reiterated his commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers to enhance their effectiveness in delivering justice. He encouraged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue embodying the values of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and integrity, which have marked her career.

He praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment as a milestone for gender equality, serving as an inspiration for women, particularly young girls, to aspire to leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated professions. “This day celebrates the judiciary as a progressive institution, and I especially congratulate Nigerian women. Any girl can now dream big, knowing her aspirations are achievable,” Tinubu added.

The President acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun, and other family members. He also thanked the Senate for promptly confirming the new CJN and expressed gratitude to members of the judiciary for their continued support.

The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Supreme Court justices, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council. Vice President Kashim Shettima and several ministers were also present.

Justice Kekere-Ekun had been serving as the acting CJN since August, following the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. Born on May 7, 1958, in London, she earned her law degree from the University of Lagos in 1980 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981 after completing the Nigerian Law School. She later obtained a Master of Law degree from the London School of Economics in 1983.

Her judicial career began as a Senior Magistrate II in Lagos State, and she rose through the ranks to become a State High Court Judge. She also chaired the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal in Ikeja from 1996 to 1999. In 2004, she was appointed to the Court of Appeal, followed by her promotion to the Supreme Court in July 2013. In recognition of her service, she was awarded the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022.