Justice Kekere-Ekun Faces Senate Screening for Chief Justice Position

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun appeared before Nigerian lawmakers on Wednesday for screening and confirmation as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria. This follows President Bola Tinubu’s letter to the Senate, citing Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution.

During the session, Kekere-Ekun emphasized her commitment to expediting pre-election matters. “All pre-election matters will terminate at the Court of Appeal,” she stated. She also expressed her zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.

Kekere-Ekun has served as acting Chief Justice since August, following Justice Olukayode Ariwoola’s retirement. President Tinubu nominated her based on the National Judicial Council’s recommendation.

In his letter, President Tinubu urged the Senate to promptly consider and approve Kekere-Ekun’s nomination. “I trust that this request will receive the Senate’s prompt consideration and approval,” he wrote.

If confirmed, Justice Kekere-Ekun will become Nigeria’s 23rd substantive Chief Justice and the second female to hold the position. The Senate suspended its standing rules to allow visitors, including Supreme Court judges and senior presidential aides, to attend the screening.

Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation process will continue, with the Senate Committee of the Whole scheduled to deliberate on her nomination.