NJC Recommends Justice Kekere-Ekun as Next Chief Justice of Nigeria to Presidency

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointment as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

This announcement came on August 15, 2024, just days before the current CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, is set to retire on August 22, 2024, having reached the mandatory retirement age of 70.

If appointed, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun will be the second female to hold this prestigious position, following in the footsteps of Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar. Her nomination has stirred anticipation and debate across the nation, with many on social media platforms expressing a range of sentiments from support to skepticism.

Career Highlights of Justice Kekere-Ekun:

• Early Judicial Career: Justice Kekere-Ekun began her judicial career as a Senior Magistrate II in Lagos State, eventually becoming a Judge of the State High Court. She presided over significant cases during her tenure, notably as the Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja.
• Higher Judiciary: She was elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2004 and to the Supreme Court in July 2013, showcasing her ascent through Nigeria’s judicial system ranks.

Public Reaction:

The announcement has sparked widespread discussion:

• Support: Many see her appointment as a step towards gender equality in high judicial offices, celebrating her as a competent and deserving jurist.
• Concerns: Critics, however, have voiced concerns over her perceived closeness to political figures, questioning the independence of her potential tenure. Posts on X highlighted these concerns, with some users questioning if her appointment could lead to biases in judicial decisions.

The NJC’s Decision:

The recommendation was made during the NJC’s 106th Meeting, which was presided over by the outgoing CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola. This decision follows the tradition where the NJC recommends candidates for judicial positions to the President, who then makes the final appointment.

Implications for the Judiciary:

Justice Kekere-Ekun‘s potential appointment could set a precedent for more women in top judicial roles, potentially influencing judicial policy and law interpretation in Nigeria. However, the debate over judicial independence continues, with many calling for a judiciary that stands above political influence.

Next Steps:

President Tinubu is expected to review the NJC’s recommendation. If approved, Justice Kekere-Ekun‘s appointment would need to be confirmed by the Senate. After that, she would be sworn in as the CJN, marking a new chapter in Nigeria’s judicial history.