‘She made Uzodinma gov, no positive change expected’ – HURIWA on new Acting CJN

As Justice Olukayode Ariwoola steps down as the Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, has said it sees no cause for optimism with the appointment of Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun as the new Acting CJN.

The association contended that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career is not without controversy “as she is widely remembered for delivering the judgment in the 2019 Imo State gubernatorial case, where a candidate who came fourth in the election was declared the winner”.

This judgment, HURIWA asserted, 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 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, leaving many to question the transparency and accountability within the judiciary”, the statement signed by Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA national coordinator, said.

“Moreover, the circumstances surrounding Justice Kekere-Ekun’s elevation to CJN suggest that she enjoys significant political backing, particularly from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has a well-documented affinity for individuals from Lagos, where Justice Kekere-Ekun hails from.

“This political patronage will compromise her independence as CJN, leaving little room for the much-needed reform in the judiciary.”

The association further suggested that with the current political dynamics, neither the Presidency nor the National Assembly, which, according to the group, lacks the independence to challenge her appointment, is likely to oppose her becoming the substantive CJN.

In light of these developments, HURIWA said it 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.

“Without a judiciary that is independent, transparent, and committed to upholding the rule of law, HURIWA argues that Nigeria’s democracy is at risk, and the hope for justice remains an elusive dream for the common Nigerian”.