The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has committed to expediting the handling of petitions in order to strengthen the integrity of the judiciary. Justice Kekere-Ekun, a 1974 alumna of Queens College and a Life Bencher, made this pledge during her screening and confirmation hearing before the Senate on Wednesday, as she seeks confirmation as the substantive CJN.
During her appearance, Justice Kekere-Ekun emphasized her dedication to upholding the integrity of the judiciary, ensuring adherence to the rule of law, and defending the Nigerian Constitution. She stated, “I am known for integrity and discipline. I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption.”
She further outlined her plans to shield the judiciary from undue influence and improve the welfare of judicial officers to enable them to perform at their best. In addition, she expressed her commitment to strictly oversee the appointment of judicial officers to ensure merit-based selections.
Justice Kekere-Ekun also called for legal reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s independence as a nation. She underscored the need to limit the number of cases brought before the Supreme Court, specifically suggesting that all pre-election cases should conclude at the Court of Appeal.
According to her, this would reduce the judicial burden and contribute to the overall efficiency of the judicial system. She emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying issues that lead to frequent election-related court cases by advocating for improved conduct during elections.
Addressing concerns about the misuse of ex parte orders, the Acting CJN firmly stated that any judicial officer found guilty of such practices would be dealt with decisively. She also warned against the indiscriminate issuance of interim injunctions, pledging to impose similar consequences for those violations. Justice Kekere-Ekun indicated that existing disciplinary procedures within the judiciary would be strengthened to ensure accountability.
During the question-and-answer session, Senator Benson Konbowei from Bayelsa Central Senatorial District posed a provocative question, asking the Acting CJN to identify corrupt Nigerians within the Senate or the Executive, in reference to former UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s remarks describing Nigerians as “fantastically corrupt.” In response, Justice Kekere-Ekun dismissed the question as rhetorical, with the Senate President supporting her decision to move on from the inquiry.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio raised concerns about senior members of the legal profession who frequently appear on television to comment on subjudice cases, potentially influencing outcomes with their analyses.
He inquired whether punitive measures would be implemented under her leadership to address this issue. The Acting CJN assured him that such individuals would be held accountable and dealt with firmly, with no room for escape from justice.
After senators from all six geopolitical zones had their opportunity to question her, Justice Kekere-Ekun was asked to take a bow and leave, signaling the conclusion of her screening.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appearance before the Senate followed a letter from President Bola Tinubu, submitted to the Senate on Tuesday, requesting her confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
She entered the Senate chambers accompanied by other Supreme Court judges, judicial officers, and senior aides to the president on National Assembly matters.
