President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will swear in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Friday, August 23, 2024, barring any last-minute changes. This follows the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. The President also extended his congratulations to Justice Ariwoola for his successful public service career.
In a statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity on Thursday, Justice Ariwoola served as Justice of the Court of Appeal in Kaduna, Enugu, and Lagos divisions before his elevation to the Supreme Court in 2011.
Ariwoola assumed the role of Chief Justice of Nigeria two years ago, retired upon reaching the age of 70 on August 22, 2024. He had served in diverse capacities as a judicial officer.
“President Tinubu commends the eminent jurist for his services to the nation, noting his impactful leadership of the judiciary and his efforts in enriching Nigerian jurisprudence, as well as in strengthening the fibre of the law.”
“The President thanks Justice Ariwoola and wishes him the very best for the future.”
Notable judgments made by justice Kekere-Ekun
Justice Kekere-Ekun has served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria since her appointment in 2013.
Her tenure has been marked by a blend of high-profile decisions and a strong reputation for legal rigour.
Below are the key judgements made during her time:
2019 Presidential Election Petition
One of her most notable contributions was her role in the 2019 Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.
She was part of the panel that upheld President Muhammadu Buhari’s election.
The judgment was controversial but pivotal. It addressed key issues regarding the conduct of elections in Nigeria.
This included the use of electronic transmission of results and the validity of the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Protection of Constitutional Rights
In the case of Aminu Tambuwal v. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje (2016), Justice Kekere-Ekun played a crucial role in upholding the doctrine of fair hearing.
She also supported the right to a fair trial.
Her judgment reinforced the importance of due process in the Nigerian legal system, particularly in matters involving the removal of public officials.
Advocacy for Judicial Reforms
All through her career, Justice Kekere-Ekun has been a strong advocate for judicial reforms in Nigeria.
She emphasised the need for a more efficient judiciary, particularly in reducing delays and ensuring that justice is accessible to all Nigerians.