Nigerian Senate confirms Kekere-Ekun as substantive CJN

The Senate on Wednesday, September 25, confirmed the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun for appointment as the substantive CJN.

This is even as Justice Kekere-Ekun called for the termination of pre-election cases at the Appeal Court as against the current practice where they get to the Supreme Court while answering questions from Senators during her screening.

She called for tougher penalties against erring judicial officers over conflicting judgments.

Also during the session which was monitored by Diaspora Digital Media, she vowed to ensure zero tolerance for corruption as well as insulate the judiciary from external influences.

Kekere-Ekun

Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, a renowned Nigerian jurist, made history on August 22, 2024, when she became the Chief Justice of Nigeria, succeeding Olukayode Ariwoola.

Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Kekere-Ekun’s illustrious career spans over four decades.

*Early Life and Education

Kekere-Ekun obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Lagos in 1980 and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 1981.

She furthered her education at the London School of Economics, earning a Master of Laws (LL.M) degree in 1983.

This solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for her distinguished legal career.

*A Distinguished Legal Career

Kekere-Ekun began her legal career as a State Counsel at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, where she worked from 1982 to 1989.

She then transitioned into private practice, expanding her expertise in various areas of law.

In 1996, she was appointed as a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State, presiding over numerous cases.

Her judicial career advanced significantly in 2004 when she was elevated to the Court of Appeal, and later, in 2013, to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

*Landmark Judgments and Awards

Kekere-Ekun has delivered several landmark judgments, including the controversial Imo State gubernatorial election case between Hope Uzodinma and Emeka Ihedioha.

She has received various awards, including the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) national honor, conferred by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2022.

On August 23, 2024, President Bola Tinubu swore in Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, making her the second woman to hold this position, after Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar.

This appointment also marks a milestone as she becomes the first woman from the Southwest geopolitical zone to become Chief Justice of Nigeria.

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