Campus Business (September 25, 2024) – The Senate on Wednesday screened Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, currently the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), following her nomination by President Bola Tinubu for confirmation as the country’s substantive Chief Justice.

President Tinubu had, during Tuesday’s plenary, submitted a letter to the Senate through Senate President Godswill Akpabio, recommending Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation based on Section 231(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows the President to appoint a Chief Justice on the advice of the National Judicial Council, subject to Senate approval.

Kekere-Ekun’s Statements During Screening

In her address to the lawmakers, Justice Kekere-Ekun declared that all pre-election cases would be resolved at the Court of Appeal.

“All pre-election matters will terminate at the Court of Appeal. I have zero tolerance for corruption,” she stated, emphasizing her strict stance against corruption in the judiciary.

Kekere-Ekun was appointed as the acting CJN in August, after the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. During her screening, she reiterated her commitment to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, stating she would not tolerate any form of corruption.

Next Steps in the Confirmation Process

The Senate has referred her nomination to the Committee of the Whole for further deliberation. If confirmed, Justice Kekere-Ekun will become Nigeria’s 23rd substantive Chief Justice and the second woman to hold this position.

In a show of significance, the Senate suspended its usual standing rules during the session, allowing Supreme Court judges, judicial officers, and senior presidential aides to attend the screening.