President Bola Tinubu on Thursday urged the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to continue the work of her predecessor, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, and to disregard those who only appreciate the judiciary when rulings go in their favor.
Tinubu praised Justice Ariwoola, who recently retired, highlighting his long service as a reflection of dedication, hard work, and commitment to Nigeria and humanity. The President’s remarks were delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the launch of Justice Ariwoola’s autobiography, “Judging with Justice,” at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.
“His Lordship’s extensive and inspiring career on the bench is a testament to the rewards of dedication and selfless service. As Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ariwoola effectively utilized his experience to address the challenges faced by the Supreme Court and the Nigerian judiciary,” Tinubu stated.
Justice Ariwoola, the 22nd CJN, retired after reaching the mandatory age of 70, with a valedictory session held in his honor at the Supreme Court complex in Abuja. Tinubu recalled the reforms made under Ariwoola’s leadership, including extending the retirement age of judges and securing better pensions for retired judicial officers, ensuring they receive full pay as their pension for life. He also noted that Ariwoola’s rulings, which brought significant societal changes, such as financial autonomy for local government councils, were vital for the nation’s progress.
Reflecting on Ariwoola’s career, Tinubu said, “From his beginnings at the Local Authority Demonstration School in Iseyin, Oyo State, to his rise as a key figure in the judiciary, Justice Ariwoola’s journey is truly inspiring. His vast academic and professional experience, coupled with his unwavering commitment to justice, have set a high standard for the judiciary.”
The President expressed satisfaction in witnessing the judiciary’s achievements under Ariwoola’s tenure and urged the judicial arm of government to remain steadfast in its constitutional duties, despite criticism from those dissatisfied with their judgments. Tinubu also expressed hope that Justice Kekere-Ekun, as the new CJN, would build on Ariwoola’s legacy and continue to uphold the principles of justice.
Justice Ariwoola, born on August 22, 1954, was appointed to the Supreme Court on November 22, 2011, and became the substantive CJN on June 27, 2022, following the resignation of Justice Tanko Muhammad. The Senate confirmed his appointment as Chief Justice on September 21, 2022.
At the book launch, the incoming CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, praised Ariwoola, quoting James Baikie’s “Peeps at Many Lands: Ancient Rome,” and described him as a personification of the qualities that make a nation great.
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike also lauded Ariwoola’s contributions, particularly his role in the recent Judicial Office Holders Salaries and Allowances Act 2024, which aims to ensure the judiciary is independent and well-resourced.
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), also commended Ariwoola’s leadership, attributing the judiciary’s stability and Nigeria’s unity to his focused leadership. Abubakar urged judges to continually ask themselves if they have judged with justice, making this the guiding principle of their work.
The event also featured a review of the autobiography by Justice Benedict Bawaph Kanyip, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria. Kanyip emphasized that the book focuses on Justice Ariwoola’s background and guiding principles, highlighting that a judge’s only client should be justice.
Other notable attendees included the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun; President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem; state Attorneys-General; senior members of the judiciary and legal profession; ICPC Chairman Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN); and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
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