The African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) has commended the National Judicial Council (NJC) for its recommendation of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). In an interview on Monday in Lagos, AWLA President, Mrs. Mandy Asagba, praised the recommendation, describing it as well-deserved and long overdue.
Mrs. Asagba emphasized that Justice Kekere-Ekun has shown steadfast dedication to her judicial duties, making her an excellent choice for the CJN position. She highlighted that this recommendation reflects the significant contributions Kekere-Ekun has made to Nigeria’s judiciary, and she extended the best wishes of the women lawyers to her.
“She is one of the justices of the Supreme Court that one could vouch for in terms of character, integrity and quality of judgment she delivers.”
“She is one of the incorruptible judges in the Supreme Court.”
“We, as women lawyers are very happy, excited and elated to have a female CJN again,” Asagba said.
She added that Justice Kekere-Ekun would be the second female CJN in Nigeria, after many years the country attained independence.
Asagba expressed joy and prayed that the Almighty God would equip Kekere-Ekun well for the new position.
“It is a position that demands a lot of time and intellect. I am positive she will surely make us proud.”
“I know she will turn out to be one of the best CJN because women always go the extra mile,” she said.
The AWLA president added that the association was happy because there was no manipulation in the recommendation of the incoming CJN.
The National Judicial Council had, during its recent 106th meeting, recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun for appointment by Tinubu as the next CJN.
The recommendation was made by the NJC against the backdrop of the fast approaching retirement of the current CJN, Olukayode Ariwoola, on Aug. 22. He was appointed on June 27, 2022.
