Kekere-Ekun Appears Before Senate, Promises Corruption Crackdown

Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, has made a bold commitment to uphold integrity and strictness in the judiciary, vowing to enforce a zero-tolerance policy on corruption.

This promise was made during her screening by the Senate, where she assured lawmakers that her top priority, once confirmed, would be the speedy handling of petitions before the courts.

She also emphasized the importance of shielding the judiciary from external influence and advocating for better welfare and infrastructure.

Justice Kekere-Ekun highlighted the need for strengthening national institutions and promoting responsible behavior from the populace, particularly during elections.

She believes this would reduce the tendency to contest election results in court.

The Senate has commenced her screening for the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion to prioritize her screening on the legislative agenda.

Justice Kekere-Ekun arrived at the Senate Chamber accompanied by other Supreme Court and Court of Appeal justices.

Senator Basheer Lado, Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, led her into the Chamber.

President Bola Tinubu had written to the Senate seeking her confirmation as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The President’s letter was read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio upon the Senate’s return from its annual recess.

Justice Kekere-Ekun was sworn in as the 23rd Chief Justice of Nigeria by President Tinubu on August 23, 2024.

She will serve in an acting capacity until her confirmation by the Senate.

Notably, Justice Kekere-Ekun is the second female to hold this position, after Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar.

Born on May 7, 1958, in London, she obtained her law degree from the University of Lagos in 1980.

After completing her studies at the Nigerian Law School, she was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981.

Her extensive legal background makes her a strong candidate for the position.

The screening process is a critical step towards her confirmation, and lawmakers will scrutinize her qualifications and vision for the judiciary.

Justice Kekere-Ekun’s commitment to integrity and anti-corruption is crucial in maintaining public trust in the judiciary. Her success in this role will depend on her ability to implement these values.

The outcome of her screening and confirmation will be closely watched, as it will set the tone for the judiciary’s direction under her leadership.

Ultimately, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s leadership will shape the judiciary’s role in promoting justice and upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.source:vanguard news