By Damilare Adeleye
The Senate has confirmed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Kekere-Ekun, who had been acting in that capacity since August sequel to the retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday.She was accompanied by other Supreme Court and Court of Appeal Justices to the Senate Chamber by 12:30 pm on Wednesday.Her confirmation followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request in a letter transmitted and read by the Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Tuesday.Tinubu said his request was pursuant to section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended which gives the president powers to appoint the CJN on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC).“I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN,” the letter read in part.The Senate President Godswill Akpabio after reading the letter referred the request to the committee of the whole for consideration on Wednesday.After an exhaustive interview session and screening, the Senate confirmed her appointment as the CJN.During the screening, Justice Kekere-Ekun vowed to ensure zero tolerance for corruption to foster integrity within the judiciary.This was as she pledged to do her best and uphold the integrity of the judicial arm, the rule of law and defend the Constitution of Nigeria.“I am known for integrity and discipline, I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun assured.“There is a need to insulate the judiciary, push for better welfare for judicial officers to ensure they perform at their optimal. Appointment of Judicial officers will also be stringently done.”