Following the confirmation of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) by the Senate, several Lagos-based lawyers have urged her to “match words with action” in her leadership of the judiciary.
The Senate confirmed Justice Kekere-Ekun’s appointment on Wednesday, and reactions from legal practitioners have highlighted key areas of focus for her administration.
Mr. Anthony Makolo, founder of the MAEF Foundation for Indigent Inmates, emphasized the importance of merit in judicial appointments. He stated, “Effective justice delivery can only be ensured with capable hands on the bench.” He urged the new CJN to mandate that all appointees have substantial legal practice experience. “When a magistrate who has never practiced law or attended a court session is appointed, it hampers the efficiency we seek in the justice system,” he explained. Makolo called for speedy justice delivery to be prioritized in Kekere-Ekun’s agenda.
Mrs. Ebere Obiora, Ogun State Coordinator of the African Women Lawyers Association, raised concerns about the current electronic filing system in Lagos State, describing it as cumbersome for lawyers. She suggested reverting to manual filing for court processes and advocated for a more user-friendly e-filing portal that allows lawyers to submit documents directly from their offices. “This is a major issue requiring prompt attention from the judiciary,” she noted, emphasizing that the existing system creates unnecessary burdens on legal practitioners.
Rights campaigner Chief Malcom Omirhobo called for an increase in the number of justices on the Supreme Court, stressing the need for swift handling of election petitions that are crucial to public interest. “The CJN has mapped out tall goals for her administration, and I wish her the willpower to execute these goals,” he said.
Mr. Ogedi Igu, Country Director of the Advocacy for Justice and Accountability (AJA), underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and expressed confidence in the new CJN’s understanding of the justice system. He assured that AJA would continue to hold the judiciary accountable for its commitments.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, now 66 years old, has been serving as the acting CJN since the retirement of Justice Kayode Ariwoola in August.