Lagos lawyers laud Kekere-Ekun’s nomination as CJN

Some Lagos-based lawyers have hailed the recommendation of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Tinubu for confirmation as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The lawyers said her nomination was well deserved.

The National Judicial Council (NJC) had, during its recent 106th meeting, recommended Ms Kekere-Ekun for appointment by Tinubu as the next CJN.

The recommendation was made by the NJC against the backdrop of the fast-approaching retirement of the current CJN, Olukayode Ariwoola, on August 22. He was appointed on June 27, 2022.

Speaking in separate interviews with journalists on Saturday in Lagos, the lawyers commended the nomination, describing the development as a step in the right direction.

Samson Erugo, one of the lawyers, said the nomination followed the long-established practice where the most senior was appointed as the CJN.

“The nomination is more of a formality because my Lord, Justice Kekere-Ekun, is the next in seniority to the outgoing CJN.

“She has been at the apex court for a long time and is experienced. She is also very competent, the nomination is well-deserved,” Mr Erugo said.

Also speaking, Chibuikem Opara of Justification Firm, Ikeja, said when the nomination is confirmed, Ms Kekere-Ekun will be the second female CJN.

Mr Opara expressed optimism that Ms Kekere-Ekun would do well in steering the Supreme Court and the entire judiciary to greater heights.

He, however, said the image and perception of the judiciary in Nigeria had become “very low.” According to him, the appointment requires a sagacious approach.

“Justice Kekere-Ekun has made pronouncements that formed the current jurisprudence in many fields of law. But her leading judgment in the case of Uzodinma vs Ihedioha is still sticky,” Mr Opara said.

On his part, Ganiyu Olanrewaju described her nomination as the next CJN as a brilliant development, saying her vast experience and judicial dexterity made her an excellent choice for the position.

According to Mr Olarenwaju, the appointment has the potential to bring about positive reforms in the judiciary, particularly in the areas of independence and accountability.

“It is, however, important to ensure a transparent and merit-based appointment process. This process should be as transparent as possible.

“The NJC must ensure that due diligence is conducted and all allegations against her are thoroughly investigated before confirmation,” he said.

Kehinde Nubi, another lawyer, said Ms Kekere-Ekun had paid her dues and that her appointment would be well-deserved.

He added that historically, she was going to be the second female CJN.

“She would be the first chief justice that will be taking off with the full complement of 21 justices in the Supreme Court in a long while; an obvious advantage.

“She has the duty to reduce the backlog of cases and ensure speedier dispensation of justice,” he said.