NJC Recommends Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as Next Chief Justice of Nigeria

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has taken a decisive step in Nigeria’s judicial leadership transition by recommending Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). The NJC, during its 106th meeting on Thursday, made this crucial recommendation, which will be forwarded to President Bola Tinubu today, Friday, for his approval. The meeting was presided over by the outgoing CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who emphasized the importance of ensuring a seamless transition at the helm of Nigeria’s judiciary.

The NJC’s Director of Information, Soji Oye, confirmed that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s name would be sent to the President today. He stated, “The meeting just finished today, so tomorrow is when My Lord’s name will be taken to the President for his approval of her as the next CJN.” This step is particularly significant as Justice Ariwoola is set to retire on Thursday, August 22, 2024. If approved, Justice Kekere-Ekun will make history as the second female CJN in Nigeria, following in the footsteps of Justice Mariam Mukhtar, who served from July 2012 to November 2014.

Implications of Justice Kekere-Ekun’s Appointment as CJN

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun’s potential appointment as the CJN marks a milestone in Nigeria’s judicial history. Her selection by the NJC underscores the council’s confidence in her abilities to lead the nation’s judiciary. Known for her legal acumen and dedication to justice, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation to the highest judicial position would reinforce the principles of fairness, integrity, and judicial independence.

As the second female to hold this prestigious office, her appointment would also serve as a symbol of progress in gender representation within Nigeria’s legal system. Justice Kekere-Ekun’s expected leadership comes at a time when the judiciary is increasingly called upon to address complex legal challenges and uphold the rule of law in a rapidly evolving society. Her experience and judicial philosophy are anticipated to guide the judiciary in navigating these challenges effectively.

NJC’s Broader Judicial Appointments Across Nigeria

In addition to recommending Justice Kekere-Ekun as the next CJN, the NJC also made several other significant judicial appointments during its Thursday meeting. A total of 27 candidates have been recommended for appointment as judges of state high courts, along with one candidate for the position of Khadi at the Sharia Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. These recommendations will be sent to the respective state governors and the President for final approval.

The candidates recommended include six for the Kwara State High Court, four for the Benue State High Court, and eight for the Rivers State High Court, among others. This comprehensive round of judicial appointments reflects the NJC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the judiciary across various states, ensuring that qualified and competent judges are appointed to uphold justice at all levels. The recommended candidates are expected to assume their roles upon receiving the necessary approvals, thereby contributing to the judiciary’s capacity to administer justice efficiently and effectively. :::Profile of Justice Kekere-Ekun: A Distinguished Legal Luminary

Early Life and Education

Justice Kekere-Ekun was born in London, United Kingdom, where she began her journey toward becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected legal minds. Her educational pursuits were marked by excellence from an early age. In 1980, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Law from the prestigious University of Lagos, a feat that marked the beginning of a stellar legal career.

Following her undergraduate studies, she was admitted to the Nigeria Bar on July 10, 1981, after successfully completing her training at the Nigerian Law School. Her thirst for knowledge and her commitment to the legal profession led her to further her education at the London School of Economics, where she obtained a master’s degree in Law in November 1983. This international exposure not only broadened her legal perspective but also equipped her with the skills and knowledge that would later define her career.

Judicial Career and Contributions

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s judicial career began with her appointment as Senior Magistrate II in the Lagos State Judiciary, a position that laid the foundation for her rise through the judicial ranks. Her dedication to justice and her exceptional legal acumen earned her a promotion to the position of State High Court Judge. During her tenure, she made significant contributions to the Lagos State Judiciary, notably serving as the Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja, from November 1996 to May 1999. This role involved presiding over cases that required not only a deep understanding of the law but also a strong moral compass and commitment to justice.

In 2004, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career took a significant leap forward when she was appointed to the bench of the Court of Appeal. Her time at the Court of Appeal was marked by her dedication to upholding the rule of law and her ability to handle complex legal issues with fairness and integrity. Her exemplary service and unwavering commitment to justice led to her appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in July 2013, a position that confirmed her status as one of the country’s foremost legal minds.

Recognition and National Honours

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s contributions to the Nigerian judiciary have not gone unnoticed. In October 2022, her years of service and dedication to the legal profession were recognized at the highest level when President Muhammadu Buhari conferred upon her the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR). This prestigious award is a testament to her outstanding service to the nation and her role in shaping Nigeria’s legal landscape. Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, integrity, and a commitment to the rule of law. Her journey from a young law graduate to a Supreme Court Justice and national honouree serves as an inspiration to aspiring legal professionals across Nigeria.