Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Monday, marking a historic moment as she becomes the second woman to ever hold the position.
The ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja, was presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining the independence and sanctity of the judiciary.
In his address, President Tinubu underscored the critical role of the judiciary in upholding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, emphasizing its function as a moderating force within the government.
“The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy,” the President said. “Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.”
The President further reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring the judiciary remains truly independent. He pledged not to interfere in judicial affairs, maintaining the distinct separation of powers between the branches of government.
“While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us,” Tinubu added. “We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy.”
The President also expressed his government’s dedication to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, citing recent efforts to enhance the effectiveness of justice delivery. He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue her legacy of ethical leadership and fearlessness in the judiciary.
“The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow,” he said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, whose appointment was confirmed by the Senate, has had an illustrious career in law. She began as a Senior Magistrate in Lagos and later rose through the ranks to become a State High Court Judge, before her appointment to the Court of Appeal in 2004 and subsequently, as a Justice of the Supreme Court in 2013.
In his speech, President Tinubu praised her journey as a testament to hard work and dedication, describing her appointment as an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a traditionally male-dominated field.
“This day has cemented the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I specifically congratulate the Nigerian women. Any girl child can dream big and have her dreams come true. It is worth celebrating,” Tinubu noted.
The President also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s family, including her 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu, and her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun. He commended the Senate for expediting her confirmation and thanked the judiciary for its support.
The ceremony was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and other prominent members of the judiciary, including four former Chief Justices, such as the first female CJN, Justice Aloma Mukhtar. Other notable attendees included the President of the Court of Appeal and various heads of judicial divisions.
Justice Kekere-Ekun takes over from Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who retired earlier this year. With her appointment, she becomes Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice, joining a select group of individuals who have shaped the nation’s legal landscape.
Justice Kekere-Ekun was born on May 7, 1958, in London and began her legal career after obtaining her law degree from the University of Lagos in 1980. She earned a Master of Law from the London School of Economics in 1983. Her career in the judiciary spans several decades, during which she has made significant contributions, including her service as Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal in Lagos from 1996 to 1999.
In 2022, her contributions were recognized by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who conferred upon her the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
As Justice Kekere-Ekun begins her tenure as CJN, expectations are high that she will continue her legacy of integrity and fearless leadership in Nigeria’s judiciary, setting the stage for future generations of legal practitioners.
