Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun Sworn in as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice
In a significant milestone for Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has been sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), making her the second female to hold this esteemed position. President Bola Tinubu administered the oath of office on Friday, August 23, 2024, in a ceremony that was attended by top government officials, legal luminaries, and members of the judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment follows the retirement of Chief Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. Her ascension to the highest judicial office in Nigeria has been widely celebrated, especially as it represents another breakthrough for women in the country’s legal profession. Born on May 7, 1958, in London, Justice Kekere-Ekun has had a distinguished career, with a legal journey that spans over four decades. She graduated from the University of Lagos in 1980 and was called to the Nigerian Bar a year later.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding Justice Kekere-Ekun
Despite the celebrations surrounding her appointment, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s career has not been without challenges and controversies. Notably, in 2020, she was embroiled in a contentious case that led to her being denied entry to the United States. The case involved a controversial judgment that declared Hope Uzodinma of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Imo State gubernatorial election, a decision that sparked widespread debate and criticism.
This incident raised concerns about judicial integrity and the influence of political interests in the judiciary. However, Justice Kekere-Ekun has remained resolute, maintaining that her decisions have always been guided by the law and the principles of justice. Her supporters argue that the U.S. ban was politically motivated and does not reflect her commitment to upholding the law.
The Future of Nigeria’s Judiciary under Justice Kekere-Ekun
As Nigeria’s new Chief Justice, Justice Kekere-Ekun faces the daunting task of restoring public confidence in the judiciary, especially in a country where the judicial system is often perceived as being susceptible to political influence. Her tenure will be closely watched, with expectations that she will bring about much-needed reforms and ensure that the judiciary remains an independent and impartial arm of government.
Her appointment also signals a continued effort to promote gender equality within the judiciary, as she follows in the footsteps of Justice Aloma Mukhtar, Nigeria’s first female Chief Justice. With her vast experience and a track record of significant rulings, Justice Kekere-Ekun is poised to lead Nigeria’s judiciary through a critical period in the nation’s history.
As she takes on this new role, the eyes of the nation will be on her to see how she navigates the complexities of the Nigerian legal system and whether she can uphold the integrity of the judiciary in the face of numerous challenges.
