Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, newly sworn in as the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has made a bold pledge to root out corruption in the judiciary, vowing to enforce strict discipline and uphold the integrity of the nation’s legal system. Speaking during her Senate screening for confirmation as the substantive CJN on August 23, 2024, Kekere-Ekun declared that under her leadership, there would be “zero tolerance for corruption.”

The respected jurist, a Life Bencher and 1974 alumna of Queen’s College, Lagos, emphasized her commitment to maintaining the highest standards of judicial conduct, calling for decisive action against corrupt practices. She pledged to fast-track the handling of petitions to foster integrity and ensure that the rule of law is respected.

“I am known for integrity and discipline, and I will ensure zero tolerance for corruption,” Kekere-Ekun stated, setting a firm tone for her tenure. She also highlighted the need for improved welfare for judicial officers to enhance their performance, arguing that better conditions for judges would reduce their vulnerability to undue influence.

Kekere-Ekun outlined her vision for a more efficient judiciary, calling for reforms that would reduce the caseload at the Supreme Court. Specifically, she proposed that pre-election cases should end at the Court of Appeal, which would allow the Supreme Court to focus on more significant national matters.

“There is a need to insulate the judiciary,” she said, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding judicial independence through stronger laws and stringent appointment processes for judges.

The Acting CJN also addressed the issue of ex parte orders and interim injunctions, which have often been abused in Nigeria’s courts. She warned that any judicial officers found guilty of granting such orders recklessly would be dealt with decisively, signaling her determination to clamp down on unethical legal maneuvers.

Her strong anti-corruption stance came into sharp focus during the screening when Senator Benson Konbowei from Bayelsa Central referenced a comment made by former UK Prime Minister David Cameron, who once described Nigeria as “fantastically corrupt.” The senator provocatively asked whether Kekere-Ekun could identify corrupt individuals in the Senate or the Executive. While dismissing the question as rhetorical, she was supported by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, signaling a mutual understanding of the sensitive nature of the issue.

Senator Akpabio also raised concerns about the influence of senior lawyers who publicly comment on sub judice cases, a practice that could potentially sway judicial outcomes. In response, Kekere-Ekun assured that those found guilty of such actions would face punishment, underscoring her resolve to uphold the sanctity of judicial proceedings.

Following the question-and-answer session, where senators from all six geopolitical zones had the opportunity to interrogate the acting CJN, Kekere-Ekun was asked to take a bow—a customary gesture signaling confidence in her capacity to lead the judiciary.

Kekere-Ekun’s screening came after President Bola Tinubu formally requested her confirmation as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. The Senate’s session saw her accompanied by fellow Supreme Court judges, judicial officers, and senior presidential aides on National Assembly matters.

Her tenure as CJN, if confirmed, promises to usher in a new era of reform and discipline within the judiciary, with the goal of restoring public trust and ensuring that justice is not only served but seen to be served across the country.

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