The immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola recently stepped down as the CJN, as reported by newsmen. And has been replaced by Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun in Acting capacity.
However, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed their concerns over her appointment. Making reference to her questionable and controversial career journey which includes her role in the 2019 Imo state governorship election that brought Gov. Hope Uzodinma to became the sitting governor of Imo state from his fourth position.
In this case, a candidate who finished fourth in the election was declared the winner. A judgement seen as the most controversial in the history of Nigerian Judiciary according to HURIWA.
The association believes that this decision marked the beginning of Judiciary decay in Nigeria.
Furthermore, HURIWA raised the following objections about her appointment:
- Justice Kekere-Ekun’s integrity is a matter of concern HURIWA expressed.
- They unresolved allegations about her failure to declare her assets as required by law. The group criticized the Code of Conduct Bureau for not investigating these allegations. “Despite these serious accusations, the Code of Conduct Bureau has not pursued an investigation.
- Question the transparency and accountability within the judiciary.
- .Political influence behind Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation to the position of CJN.
They claimed that she has significant political backing, especially from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Justice Kekere-Ekun is from Lagos, and President Tinubu is known for favoring individuals from Lagos.
.Questions about transparency and accountability in the judiciary.
“Moreover, the circumstances surrounding Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation to CJN suggest a significant political backing, and under tone from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who is known for favouring individuals from Lagos, where Justice Kekere-Ekun hails from,” according to the statement signed by Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA national coordinator.
