Justice Kekere-Ekun Sworn in as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice, with President Tinubu Committing to Judicial Independence and Welfare
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Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun Sworn in as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice, with President Tinubu Pledging to Uphold Judicial Independence
Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun, Nigeria’s second female Chief Justice, was sworn in after receiving Senate confirmation. The ceremony took place at the Council Chamber of the State House in Abuja.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by four former Chief Justices of the Federation, including the first female Chief Justice, Aloma Mukhtar, as well as the President of the Court of Appeal and other heads of judicial divisions.
President Tinubu emphasized the crucial role of the judiciary in protecting Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
“The judiciary is a vital pillar of our constitutional democracy,” President Tinubu stated. “Throughout history, the Nigerian judiciary has acted as a moderating force, ensuring accountability. Your role as the last hope for the common man is essential in maintaining public confidence in democracy, providing assurance that there is a reliable arbiter for redress when individuals feel wronged.”
“The independence of our judiciary is crucial for its function,” President Tinubu stated, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to preserving its sanctity. He acknowledged the need for collaboration between branches of government while emphasizing the importance of maintaining clear boundaries. “We will not interfere or misuse our relationship as separate organs of government. This is vital for sustaining our constitutional democracy,” he added.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to improving the welfare and working conditions of judicial officers, highlighting recent measures aimed at enhancing their effectiveness in delivering justice. He encouraged Justice Kekere-Ekun to uphold the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and integrity that have characterized her career, stating, “The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt you will set the pace for others to follow.”
The President praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s achievements as a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated field. “Today marks a significant moment for the judiciary as a self-evolving and progressive institution. I congratulate Nigerian women—any girl can dream big and see her dreams come true. This is truly worth celebrating,” he remarked.
President Tinubu recognized the presence of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s 89-year-old mother, Mama Wilfred Layiwola Ogundimu (nee Savage), along with family members, including her husband, Akin Kekere-Ekun. He commended the Senate for swiftly confirming the new Chief Justice and expressed gratitude to the judiciary for their ongoing support.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, former Chief Justices of Nigeria, Supreme Court justices, senior judicial officers, and members of the Federal Executive Council. Vice President Kashim Shettima and several ministers, including Muhammed Idris (Information), Nyesom Wike (FCT), Lateef Fagbemi (Justice), and Zephaniah (Special Duties), were also present.
In August, President Tinubu had appointed Justice Kekere-Ekun as acting Chief Justice following the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. Justice Kekere-Ekun is now the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria and the second woman to hold the position, after Justice Aloma Mukhtar.
Born on May 7, 1958, in London, Justice Kekere-Ekun began her legal journey at the University of Lagos, earning her law degree in 1980. After attending the Nigerian Law School, she was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981, and later obtained a Master of Law from the London School of Economics in November 1983.
She started her judicial career as a Senior Magistrate II in the Lagos State Judiciary before becoming a State High Court Judge. From November 1996 to May 1999, she served as the chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal in Ikeja. In 2004, she was appointed to the Court of Appeal, and in July 2013, she became a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Her contributions to the judiciary were recognized in October 2022 when President Muhammadu Buhari awarded her the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
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