The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has committed to expediting the handling of petitions to strengthen integrity within the judiciary.
During her Senate screening on Wednesday for confirmation as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), she emphasized her dedication to upholding the rule of law and the Constitution.
A proud alumnus of Queens College, Class of 1974, and a distinguished Life Bencher, Justice Kekere-Ekun assured the Senate of her commitment to integrity and discipline, stating, “I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption.”
She highlighted the need to insulate the judiciary from external influences and advocated for improved welfare for judicial officers to optimize their performance. Kekere-Ekun emphasized that the appointment of judicial officers will be conducted with strict adherence to standards.
In her address, she called for reforms to enhance the judiciary’s independence and suggested limiting the types of cases presented to the Supreme Court, particularly proposing that all pre-election cases should be resolved at the Court of Appeal. “We need to strengthen attitudes during elections to reduce the tendency for litigations,” she remarked.
When questioned about the abuse of Ex parte orders, Justice Kekere-Ekun vowed that any officer found guilty would face decisive action. She also addressed concerns regarding the indiscriminate granting of interim injunctions, stating that similar repercussions would apply.
The Acting CJN indicated plans to tighten existing disciplinary procedures within the judiciary to ensure accountability.
Her screening follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent letter to the Senate, requesting her confirmation as CJN. Justice Kekere-Ekun was joined in the Senate chambers by other Supreme Court judges, judicial officers, and senior aides to the President on National Assembly matters.
