The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has made a firm commitment to ensure the swift resolution of petitions within the judiciary, pledging to uphold its integrity and enhance the rule of law in Nigeria.
During her screening and confirmation appearance before the Senate on Wednesday, Kekere-Ekun emphasized her dedication to addressing corruption and improving the efficiency of the judiciary. She vowed to push for better welfare for judicial officers, which she believes is essential for optimal performance, while maintaining a strong stance on integrity and discipline.
“I am known for integrity and discipline. I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured the Senate, stating her intention to build a judiciary that remains insulated from external pressures and misconduct.
As a 1974 alumna of Queens College and a Life Bencher, Kekere-Ekun carries a reputation for professionalism, which she underscored during her address. She also highlighted the need for stringent appointment processes for judicial officers, ensuring that only the most qualified individuals take on these critical roles.
Beyond tackling corruption, the Acting CJN proposed reforms to Nigeria’s judicial structure, including a call for pre-election cases to be resolved at the Court of Appeal. She suggested this change as a way to reduce the overwhelming number of cases reaching the Supreme Court, enabling the country’s highest court to focus on more pressing national issues.
Kekere-Ekun further noted that legislative improvements are crucial to fostering greater independence in the judiciary, which will strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Her vision reflects a commitment to not only resolving immediate issues but also shaping long-term reforms aimed at securing the integrity and independence of the nation’s judicial system.
If confirmed, Justice Kekere-Ekun’s tenure as CJN could mark a significant shift toward a more transparent and efficient judiciary, characterized by a firm stance on integrity and a dedication to judicial reforms.