President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, swore into office Justice Kudirat Olatokunbo Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
By her swearing-in, Justice Kekere-Ekun becomes the second female and the 23rd CJN in the country.
The swearing in ceremony took place at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja. She had earlier been confirmed by the Senate of the Federal Republic.
While conducting the ceremony, President Tinubu underscored the pivotal role of the judiciary in safeguarding Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
His words: ”The judiciary is an important pillar constituting the tripod that holds our constitutional democracy. Indeed, the Nigerian judiciary, at various times in history, has proven to be the moderating force ensuring everyone remains in check.
”Your role as the last hope of the common man serves to sustain our people’s confidence in democracy, knowing well that there is an important arbiter that can always give them redress if they are wronged.
”For this function, it is important that our judiciary remains truly independent. It is my administration’s total commitment to preserve the sanctity of the judiciary.
”While we may have reasons to interface as complementing components of the same government, under my watch, the government will also be mindful of the clear line demarcating the two of us.
”We will never interfere or abuse the relationship between us as separate organs of government in our democracy. This is important for sustaining our constitutional democracy”.
The president urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to continue upholding the principles of ethical leadership, fearlessness, and honesty that have defined her career.
According to him, ”The Nigerian judiciary needs a leader with these qualities at this time, and I have no doubt that you will set the pace for others to follow.”
He added that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s rise is a testament to hard work and an inspiration to women, particularly young girls, in a male-dominated profession.
In attendance at the swearing-in ceremony were four former chief justices of the Nigeria, CJNs, including the first female Chief Justice, Alooma Mukhtar, Justice Mahmud Mohammed, Justice Walter Onnoghen, and Justice Olukayode Ariwoola; the President of the Court of Appeal, and other heads of the judiciary divisions.
