Just In: President Tinubu Swears in Justice Kekere-Ekun as Substantive CJN

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sworn in Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The ceremony took place at the Council Chamber of the State House Abuja on Monday, September 30, 2024.

The event had in attendance Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Right Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, Ministers of Information, Muhammed Idris, FCT, Nyesom Wike, Justice, Lateef Fagbemi and Special Duties, Mr Zephaniah

The swearing-in of Kekere-Ekun as substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria follows her confirmation by the Nigerian Senate last week.

During her confirmation hearing on the floor of the senate, the CJN fielded questions on the reforms she hopes to implement in the judiciary.

“I will ensure that the courts are digitised. It will make it easier in tracking cases and judges could be called to order if they are not treating their cases expeditiously,” Kekere-Ekun had told the senators.

“Especially in criminal matters where you have delays, we will use virtual hearing. It is something I will encourage so that criminal matters will be disposed expeditiously.

“We are exploring ways to ensure that prison decongestion is frequently carried out.

“Virtual hearings will help fast track cases, the failure to produce defendants is usually the delay in criminal cases.”

President Tinubu had in August sworn in the new CJN in acting capacity following the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

Justice Kekere-Ekun becomes the 23rd Chief Justice of the country and the second woman to hold the position, the first being Justice Alooma Mukhtar