The Senate screened Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun on Wednesday for the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Naijaonpoint reports that Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has been acting as CJN since August after Olukayode Ariwoola retired.
During her screening today, Kekere-Ekun was joined by members of the judiciary from different courts and her relatives.
The screening process commenced just over 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu reached out to the Senate, requesting that they proceed with the confirmation of Kekere-Ekun as CJN.
In a letter to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Tinubu mentioned, “I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN.
“While it is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the senate, please, accept the distinguished senate president the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”
Speaking today during her screening, Kekere-Ekun, vowed to ensure that petitions are dealt with speedily to foster integrity within the judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, a 1974 Queens College Alumnus and a Life Bencher, pledged to do her best and uphold the integrity of the judiciary, the rule of law and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.
“I am known for integrity and discipline. I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured.
“There is a need to insulate the judiciary and push for better welfare for judicial officers to ensure they perform optimally. Appointment of judicial officers will also be stringent.”
The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria also advocated for better legislation to boost the country’s autonomy, while highlighting the limitation in the volume of cases submitted to the Supreme Court.
She specifically recommended that all cases related to elections conclude at the Court of Appeal.
She believed that improving behaviour during elections is crucial to eliminate the necessity of constantly going to court.