The National Judicial Council (NJC) is set to make a crucial decision on Friday, August 16, that will shape the future of Nigeria’s judiciary.
The council will meet to select a successor to the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who will reach the mandatory retirement age of 70 on August 22.
Justice Ariwoola’s departure marks the end of an era, and the NJC’s decision will determine who will steer the judiciary for the next four years.
Among the contenders, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun stands out as the most senior Justice on the apex court bench. Her elevation to the position of CJN would make her Nigeria’s second female Chief Justice, after Justice Aloma Mukhtar.
Justice Kekere-Ekun’s journey to the top is a testament to her dedication and hard work.
She began her career in private practice in 1985 before joining the Lagos State Judiciary as a Senior Magistrate Grade II in 1989. She rose through the ranks, becoming a judge of the High Court of Lagos State in 1996 and later serving as Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja, Lagos.
Her elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2004 marked a significant milestone in her career, and she has since served with distinction, earning the respect of her peers and the admiration of the legal community.
Her swearing-in as a Justice of the Supreme Court on July 8, 2023, was a testament to her exceptional qualities and her readiness to take on the highest judicial office in the land.
The Supreme Court currently has the full complement of 21 Justices.
In the long tradition of the apex court, the next most senior Justice will likely step in.
By their hierarchies, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun is the most senior Justice on the apex court bench and is the likeliest successor.
Justice Ariwoola will exit his position as CJN on August 22, 2024, upon attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70.
The Supreme Court has fixed the same date for a valedictory session to honour him for his service to the country.
Justice Ariwoola, from Oyo State, became the CJN on October 12, 2022, succeeding Justice Tanko Mohammed from Bauchi State.
If confirmed as the next CJN, 66-year-old Justice Kekere-Ekun will steer the judiciary for four years till 2028 when she will clock the mandatory retirement age of 70.
