The Senate has officially begun the screening process for Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
This significant event took place following a formal nomination by President Bola Tinubu.
The President's letter, read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, emphasized the constitutional mandate under Section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers the President to appoint the CJN based on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC) and subject to Senate confirmation. President Tinubu's letter stated, "I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN. While I hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the Senate, please, accept distinguished Senate President the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards."
Justice Kekere-Ekun, who was sworn in as the 23rd acting CJN on August 23, 2024, arrived at the Senate Chamber at 12:30 PM, accompanied by other Justices from the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal, and various judicial bodies.
Her arrival followed a motion by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele to reorder the day's legislative business, making her screening the first matter of the day. Born on May 7, 1958, in London, United Kingdom, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun began her legal career at the University of Lagos, graduating in 1980. She was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981. Her extensive legal career and her role as the second female jurist to serve as CJN, following Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, shows her qualifications for this prestigious position.
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