President Bola Tinubu has formally approached the Senate, requesting the screening and subsequent confirmation of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
This announcement was made on Tuesday by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, upon the Senate’s resumption from its annual recess that began in July.
In his letter, President Tinubu stated, “Pursuant to 231(1) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria of 1999 as amended which gives the power to the president to appoint the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC) and subject to confirmation of the Nigerian Senate.
“I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN.
“While it is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the Senate, please, accept distinguished Senate President the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”
DAILY GAZETTE recalls that Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun was sworn in on August 23, 2024, as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
Following her swearing-in, Kekere-Ekun is expected to serve in an acting capacity until the Senate confirms her appointment.
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She took her Oaths around 11:38 am and is the second female Justice to hold this prestigious position. After the brief ceremony, Justice Kekere-Ekun took her rightful seat in the Council Chambers on the left-hand side of the President.
Her acting capacity follows the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and her nomination was presented to President Tinubu by the National Judicial Council (NJC) on August 15.
Kekere-Ekun is now the second female jurist to serve as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, following Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, who held the position from July 2012 to November 2014.
Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s legal career began at the University of Lagos, where she earned her first degree in law in 1980.
After completing her studies at the Nigerian Law School, she was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981.
