Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja. This follows her confirmation by the Senate.
At the event, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the independence of the judiciary, stating, “It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.”
The President emphasised the judiciary’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
“The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy,” he said.
He further noted the need for the judiciary to remain a moderating force, adding, “Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy.”
Tinubu pledged that his government would not interfere with the judiciary, stressing the importance of maintaining the separation of powers between the executive and the judiciary.
“We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy,” he said.
He also reiterated his administration’s dedication to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers to enhance their effectiveness.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by key figures in the judiciary, including four former Chief Justices of Nigeria, the President of the Court of Appeal, and other senior judicial officers.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and members of the Federal Executive Council were also present.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, the second female CJN in Nigeria’s history, was praised by President Tinubu for her leadership qualities.
He urged her to continue exemplifying ethical leadership and honesty, stating, “The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time.”
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise to the top of the judiciary was described by the President as an inspiration to women, especially young girls. He noted that her achievement proves that any girl child can aspire to greatness.
The President also acknowledged the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s family, including her 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (Nee Savage), and her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun.
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