President Bola Tinubu has called on the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to continue the legacy of her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
Speaking during the public presentation of the book, “Judging with Justice: The Autobiography of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola”, at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, President Tinubu urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to remain steadfast in her duties and disregard the opinions of those who criticize the judiciary, especially when decisions do not favor them.
The event, held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, brought together top legal minds, government officials, and prominent figures, all reflecting on the legacy of the retired CJN, Justice Ariwoola. The ceremony not only honored Ariwoola’s retirement but also celebrated his impact on Nigeria’s legal landscape through his book.
President Tinubu, who was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima, praised Justice Ariwoola for his dedicated service and significant contributions to Nigeria’s judicial system.
He highlighted Ariwoola’s long-standing career as an example of dedication and hard work, stating that his journey on the bench was a model for future legal practitioners. “His Lordship’s long and inspiring career on the bench is a testament to the reward for hard work, dedication, and selfless service to the nation and humanity,” Tinubu noted.
Reflecting on Justice Ariwoola’s tenure as CJN, Tinubu pointed out key reforms and strides made in the judicial sector during his leadership. These included changes in the retirement age of judges, raising the age limit to 65 for judges and to 70 for other judicial officers.
“The pensions of judicial officers have been fairly secured as retired judges will now enjoy their full pay as their pension for life. Incisive judgements that provide extensive societal reforms, such as the one that recently liberated the local government councils from the shackles of financial lack, are critical to our society’s growth and development.’
“I hope his (Justice Ariwoola’s) successor in office will carry on the baton passed on by His Lordship. I urge the Nigerian judiciary to live up to its constitutional mandate and ignore those who never see anything good in the Judiciary unless the pendulum of justice swings their way.’’
