The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has pledged to expedite the handling of petitions to enhance the integrity of the judiciary. She made the vow during her appearance before the Senate on Wednesday for screening and confirmation as the substantial CJN
Justice Kekere-Ekun also promised her determination to uphold the judiciary’s integrity, the rule of law, and defend Nigeria’s Constitution.
“I am known for integrity and discipline; I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” she assured.
She emphasized the importance of insulating the judiciary, advocating for better welfare for judicial officers to optimize their performance, and ensuring rigorous appointment processes for judicial officials.
The Acting Chief Justice also called for legislative improvements to bolster the nation’s independence and highlighted the need to restrict the number of cases presented to the Supreme Court, specifically suggesting that all pre-election cases should be resolved at the Court of Appeal.
She stressed the necessity of fostering a better electoral atmosphere to reduce the tendency to resort to the courts.
Regarding the misuse of ex parte orders, she warned that any officer found guilty would face strict consequences, extending this stance to indiscriminate grants of interim injunctions as well.
Justice Kekere-Ekun cautioned that there would be a tightening of existing disciplinary measures within the judiciary.
Following President Bola Tinubu’s request to the Senate for her confirmation as Chief Justice of Nigeria on Tuesday, the lawmakers began her screening on Wednesday, where she was accompanied by fellow Supreme Court judges, judicial officers, and senior presidential aides on National Assembly matters.
