Felicia Udeji Reporting
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, appeared before the Senate today for screening and confirmation as the substantive CJN.
During the session, she made a bold declaration: “All pre-election matters will terminate at the Court of Appeal. I have zero tolerance for corruption” ¹.
Kekere-Ekun, who has been serving in an acting capacity since August, following the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, emphasized her commitment to upholding integrity and discipline in the judiciary. She vowed to ensure that petitions are dealt with speedily to foster integrity within the judiciary and pledged to do her best to defend the Constitution of Nigeria ².
The screening comes after President Bola Tinubu sent a letter to the Senate, citing Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which authorizes the President to appoint a Chief Justice based on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council, subject to Senate confirmation
In his letter, Tinubu wrote, “I hereby forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
“I trust that this request will receive the Senate’s prompt consideration and approval.”