President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria this evening from France, barring any last-minute changes.
Upon his return, Bellnews understands that Tinubu will preside over the inauguration of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria on Friday.
Sources within the Presidency informed WESTERN POST that Tinubu, who traveled to France on Monday, will make a swift return to Abuja, viewing the swearing-in of Justice Kekere-Ekun not only as a constitutional obligation but also as a historic responsibility.
Tinubu’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, on Sunday, announced that the President will embark on his fourth trip to the European country on Monday, August 19, departing from Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Although the Presidency did not state the purpose and duration of Tinubu’s visit, it said, “The President will return to the country after his brief work stay in France.”
It was previously reported that the National Judicial Council had recommended Justice Kekere-Ekun to succeed Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, who is set to officially retire on Thursday, August 22.
Justice Kekere-Ekun, born on May 7, 1958, earned her bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos in 1980 and was called to the Nigerian Bar on July 10, 1981, after completing her studies at the Nigerian Law School. She furthered her education at the London School of Economics, obtaining a master’s degree in Law in November 1983.
Her career began in the Lagos State Judiciary as Senior Magistrate II, eventually rising to the position of State High Court Judge. Between November 1996 and May 1999, she served as Chairman of the Robbery and Firearms Tribunal, Zone II, Ikeja.
In 2004, Justice Kekere-Ekun was appointed to the Nigerian Court of Appeal, and in July 2013, she was elevated to the Supreme Court of Nigeria.