Kudirat Kekere-Ekun Chief Justice of Nigeria
The Senate has confirmed the appointment of Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice (CJN). The Senate approved her appointment after confirmation and she outlined her vision for reforming the judiciary.
Kekere-Ekun, who has served as acting CJN since August, addressed questions from senators on how she plans to modernize the court system and reduce case backlogs.
She emphasized the need for the digitization of court proceedings and the wider use of virtual hearings, particularly in criminal cases, to expedite justice delivery.
“I will ensure that the courts are digitized, which will improve case tracking and accountability for judges handling cases slowly,” she said.
“Virtual hearings will be encouraged, especially for criminal matters, where delays are often due to the failure to produce defendants.”
The new CJN also highlighted the importance of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) as a means to decongest prisons and provide more amicable solutions.
“While courts often result in winners and losers, ADR offers the opportunity for all parties to leave satisfied,” she added.
Following the hearing, Senate Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele confirmed there were no petitions against Kekere-Ekun’s nomination.
The Senate went ahead and confirmed her appointment through a voice vote led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Kekere-Ekun’s confirmation marks a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s judiciary as she takes on the task of driving much-needed reforms in one of the country’s most critical institutions.
She promised to drive a visionary judiciary with confidence among the populace.
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