NJC Endorses Kekere-Ekun for Chief Justice, Approves 28 New Judges Across States

The National Judicial Council (NJC) has endorsed Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the next Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). This decision was made during its 106th meeting, chaired by the current CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who formally recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Tinubu for appointment.

The recommendation was announced by NJC’s Director of Information, Soji Oye, who highlighted the importance of the decision as Justice Ariwoola prepares to retire on August 22, 2024, upon reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

If confirmed by the President, Justice Kekere-Ekun will become Nigeria’s second female CJN, following Justice Mariam Mukhtar, who served from July 2012 to November 2014.

In addition to the recommendation of Justice Kekere-Ekun, the NJC also recommended 27 other judges for appointment across various state high courts, with their approvals to be sought from the President and respective state governors. These candidates are expected to be sworn in after the approval process is completed.

Full List of Judges Recommended by the NJC:

Kwara State High Court:

1. Olawoyin, Ibijoke Olabisi

2. Abdulrazaq, Fatimah Funsho

3. Folorunsho, Oba Muritala

4. Dikko, Yusuf Adebayo

5. Adeniyi, Oluwatosin Adenike

6. Osuolale-Ajayi, Temitope Olalekan

Kaduna State High Court:

1. Zubairu, Murtala Ja’afaru

Benue State High Court:

1. Kor, Vincent Tersoo

2. Ikwulono, Maigida Maimuna

3. Adagba, Nguhemen Julie

4. Tor, Damian Tersugh

Customary Court of Appeal, Benue State:

1. Onche, Ogah Inalegwu

2. Igba, Theophilus Terhile

Rivers State High Court:

1. Onyiri, Frank

2. Ugoji, Victor Chinedum

3. Obomanu, Godswill Vidal

4. Oguguo, Rita Chituru

5. Fubara, Alatuwo Elkanah

6. Kokpan, Bariyima Sylvester

7. Obu, Ibietela Innocent Madighi

8. Wifa-Adedipe, Lesi

Ondo State High Court:

1. Daomi, Williams Adebisi

2. Fabuluje, Adewumi William

3. Ogunwumiju, Mobayonle Idowu

4. Demehin-Ogunbayo, Inumidun Happiness

5. Kpemi, Ojufisintei Justinah

6. Adegoroye, Olufunke Adeola

Kadi, Sharia Court of Appeal, FCT Abuja:

1. Muhammad, Lawal Munir

These recommendations mark significant appointments in Nigeria’s judicial system, with the spotlight firmly on Justice Kekere-Ekun as she awaits confirmation to lead the nation’s judiciary.