Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s Confirmation as CJN Awaits Senate Verdict

The Nigerian Senate is set to screen Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun for confirmation as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) today.

President Bola Tinubu forwarded Kekere-Ekun’s nomination to the Senate, citing Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowers him to appoint the CJN based on the National Judicial Council’s recommendation and subject to Senate approval.

In his letter, Tinubu stated, “I hereby forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, CON, for confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. I trust that this request will receive the Senate’s prompt consideration and approval.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for deliberation.

Kekere-Ekun has been serving as acting CJN since August, following Justice Olukayode Ariwoola’s retirement. Her confirmation would make her the 23rd substantive CJN and the second female to hold the office in Nigeria’s judicial history.

With a distinguished legal career spanning decades, Kekere-Ekun’s nomination has generated interest among legal experts and Nigerians.

The Senate’s decision will determine Kekere-Ekun’s future role in shaping Nigeria’s judiciary, potentially paving the way for her to leave a lasting legacy.

Today’s screening will be crucial in determining the trajectory of Nigeria’s judicial system under Kekere-Ekun’s leadership