President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as Nigeria’s 23rd Chief Justice (CJN) on Monday at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
This event followed her confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, making her the second woman in the nation’s history to hold the esteemed judicial position.
Kekere-Ekun, who succeeded Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, had been serving in an acting capacity since August 2024, after Ariwoola’s retirement upon reaching the mandatory age of 70.
Kekere’s Vision For Nigeria’s Judiciary
During her confirmation hearing, Kekere-Ekun laid out her vision for reforming Nigeria’s judiciary.
She emphasized the urgent need to digitize court operations, which would improve the efficiency of case management and ensure greater accountability.
According to Kekere-Ekun, digital systems would enable courts to track cases more effectively, holding judges accountable if they fail to process cases promptly.
This action is important in criminal cases, where delays are frequently brought on by logistical issues, like the inability to present defendants in court on schedule.
Another key area of reform is the use of virtual hearings, which Kekere-Ekun sees as a solution to many delays in criminal trials.
Virtual platforms would allow courts to process cases without the physical presence of defendants, reducing the time lost due to logistical barriers.
Additionally, she emphasized the significance of regular prison decongestion initiatives, which would be strengthened by using virtual hearings to expedite case resolution.
Kekere-Ekun’s dedication to efficiency and reform has been evident throughout her judicial career, and her appointment to the CJN is viewed as a step in the right direction toward resolving the persistent problems with Nigeria’s legal system.
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