As Justice Olukayode Ariwoola steps down as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed skepticism about the appointment of Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun as the new Acting CJN.
The association contends that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career is not without controversy, citing her role in delivering the judgment in the 2019 Imo State gubernatorial case, where a candidate who came fourth in the election was declared the winner.
HURIWA asserts that this judgment was one of the most controversial in the history of the Supreme Court and marked a significant turning point in the judiciary’s decline.
Furthermore, HURIWA has raised concerns about Justice Kekere-Ekun’s integrity, pointing to unresolved allegations regarding her failure to declare her assets as required by law. Despite these serious accusations, the Code of Conduct Bureau has not pursued an investigation, leading many to question the transparency and accountability within the judiciary.
Moreover, the circumstances surrounding Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation to CJN suggest that she enjoys significant political backing, particularly from Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has a well-documented affinity for individuals from Lagos, where Justice Kekere-Ekun hails from. HURIWA argues that this political patronage will compromise her independence as CJN, leaving little room for the much-needed reform in the judiciary.
The association further suggests that, given the current political dynamics, neither the Presidency nor the National Assembly—both of which, according to the group, lack the independence to challenge her appointment—are likely to oppose her becoming the substantive CJN.
In light of these developments, HURIWA holds a grim outlook for the future of Nigeria’s judiciary. The association believes that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s tenure will perpetuate the existing culture of nepotism, corruption, and politically motivated decisions that have plagued the judiciary under her predecessor.
“The judiciary, as it stands, cannot deliver justice to ordinary Nigerians, as it appears to serve only the interests of the highest bidders and politically exposed persons. The transition from Justice Ariwoola to Justice Kekere-Ekun does not signal a positive change. Instead, it represents a continuation of the judiciary’s decline.
