The Senate conducted a screening on Wednesday for Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, who has been acting as Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) since August following the retirement of Olukayode Ariwoola.
During the screening, Kekere-Ekun was accompanied by various members of the judiciary and her family. This process began shortly after President Bola Tinubu formally requested the Senate to confirm her appointment as CJN.
In his letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu stated, “I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN. It is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the Senate.”
In her address during the screening, Kekere-Ekun emphasized her commitment to addressing petitions promptly to enhance integrity within the judiciary. A distinguished alumnus of Queens College (1974) and a Life Bencher, she pledged to uphold judicial integrity, the rule of law, and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.
“I am known for integrity and discipline. I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun affirmed. She also highlighted the importance of providing better welfare for judicial officers to enhance their performance, stating that the appointment process for judges should be rigorous.
Additionally, she called for improved legislation to strengthen the country’s judicial autonomy and suggested that all election-related cases be resolved at the Court of Appeal. She stressed that enhancing conduct during elections is vital to reducing the need for frequent court interventions.