September 30, (THEWILL) – President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the independence and sanctity of the Nigerian judiciary.
The President made the pledge on Monday when he swore in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
This follows the confirmation of her appointment by the Nigerian Senate on Wednesday, September 25.
The swearing-in ceremony, held in the Council Chambers of the State House on Monday, was attended by four former Chief Justices of Nigeria, including Alooma Muktar, Mahmud Mohammed, Walter Onnoghen and Olukayode Ariwoola. The President of the Court of Appeal and other heads of the judiciary divisions also witnessed the ceremony.
President Tinubu had on August 23, sworn in Justice Kekere-Ekun as the new CJN in an acting capacity, following the statutory retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
The 66-year-old was recommended as CJN by the National Judicial Council (NJC) for the approval of President Tinubu on August 15, 2024, as the 23rd and second female
Speaking on Monday, President Tinubu underscored the pivotal role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
“The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.
“Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.
“For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.
“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. We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy,” he said.
President Tinubu reiterated his government’s dedication to improving judicial officers’ welfare and working conditions, noting recent decisions to enhance their effectiveness in administering justice.
He urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty that have defined her career.
“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.
The President lauded Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise as a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated profession.
“This day has also 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,” he said.
President Tinubu also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and other family members led by Akin Kekere-Ekun, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s husband.
He commended the Senate for expediting the confirmation of the new CJN and thanked members of the judiciary for their continued support.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Justices of the Supreme Court, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council attended the event.
