Tinubu asks senate to confirm Kekere-Ekun as substantive CJN

President Bola Tinubu has asked the Senate to confirm Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The request was communicated through a letter, read Tuesday at plenary by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

The letter reads in part: “Pursuant to 231(1) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria of 1999 as amended which gives the power to the president powers to appoint the chief justice of Nigeria (CJN) on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC) and subject to confirmation of the Nigerian senate.

“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.”

Meanwhile, Senate President Akpabio has referred the request to the committee of the whole to consider on Wednesday.

President Tinubu had on August 23, sworn in Justice Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) in an acting capacity, following the statutory retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.

The 66-year-old was recommended as CJN  by the National Judicial Council (NJC) for the approval of President Tinubu on August 15, 2024, as the 23rd and second female CJN.