By Tosin Adesile
Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, has retired as the Chief Justice of Nigeria having clocked 70.
In his valedictory speech at the Supreme Court complex in Abuja, Ariwoola disclosed that to suit the times and address current challenges, he signed off on the new Supreme Court Rules 2024 earlier this month.
He explained that upon assuming office as the CJN two years ago, he was concerned about the rules regulating procedures in the apex court, which had been in place for 39 years, predating the advent of the internet and electronic transactions.
He noted that although practice directions have been issued periodically over the years to meet the demands of justice, the substantive rules were still from 1985.
He said, “At the time the Supreme Court Rules 1985 were made, things that are now ubiquitous, like information technology, electronic transactions, and global telecommunication, were either not in existence or in their formative stages. How, then, could such outdated rules be adequate for today’s challenges?
“It was for this reason that I empaneled a Rules Committee to undertake the arduous task of reviewing the 39-year-old rules and the numerous extant practice directions comprehensively.
“I am glad to report that earlier this month, pursuant to the provisions of Section 236 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, I signed off on the New Supreme Court Rules 2024.”
*Kekere-Ekun In*
Nigeria has appointed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as its 23rd Chief Justice of the Federation, marking a significant milestone as the country welcomes its second female Chief Justice in history.
President Bola Tinubu announced the appointment on Friday, and it is seen as a progressive step forward in promoting gender equality within the nation’s highest judicial office.
Justice Kekere-Ekun is expected to bring her wealth of experience and a distinguished career in the judiciary to the role.
Her elevation to the highest judicial position is expected to influence key legal reforms and further strengthen the independence and integrity of Nigeria’s judicial system.