Sanwo-Olu hails Kekere-Ekun as gatekeeper of justice, pledges full support
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed confidence in the leadership of Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the newly appointed Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), vowing that her tenure will reinforce the judiciary as a key protector of citizens’ rights and defender of the constitution.
Sanwo-Olu made the statement on Saturday night during a special dinner held in honor of Justice Kekere-Ekun at Lagos House, Marina.
The dinner was attended by prominent figures, including Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, Lagos Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, and several justices from the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal.
In his remarks, Governor Sanwo-Olu highlighted Justice Kekere-Ekun’s exceptional intellectual abilities and unwavering commitment to upholding the law, noting that her elevation to the highest judicial office was a historic moment not only for Nigeria but also for women’s leadership.
“Your ascension speaks powerfully to the boundless potential of women and to the fact that excellence in leadership knows no gender,” Sanwo-Olu said. “It shows every young girl, every aspiring woman leader in Nigeria that they too can lead, decide, and redefine what is possible.”
The Governor further emphasised the significance of Lagos in the legal landscape of Nigeria, pointing to the state’s contribution to producing some of the country’s finest legal minds.
“This dinner is a celebration of Lagos’s place in the development of jurisprudence in Nigeria,” he added.
Sanwo-Olu also praised Justice Kekere-Ekun’s commitment to judicial welfare, which he described as one of the cornerstones of her leadership. He expressed confidence that her reforms would inspire positive changes in the Nigerian judicial system and elevate it to new heights.
“I have no doubt in my mind that the Lagos reform model will serve as a credible template for national judicial reform,” he stated.
In her response, Justice Kekere-Ekun, visibly moved by the show of support from Lagos, reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring justice and equity.
“I appreciate the heavy responsibility on my shoulders as the Chief Justice of Nigeria. I am committed to upholding the high standards of our judiciary, promoting judicial independence, and fostering an environment where the rule of law prevails,” she said.
Other speakers, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and ex-Governor Babatunde Fashola, also praised Justice Kekere-Ekun for her distinguished career, which has spanned roles as a judge in the Magistrate Court, High Court, Court of Appeal, and Supreme Court.
They lauded her courage and integrity, noting her significant contributions to the legal profession and her exceptional leadership at every stage of her career.
Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded by stressing the need for collaboration across all arms of government to ensure the continued strengthening of democracy in Nigeria.
”As we wine and dine tonight, let us strengthen our resolve to play our part in deepening collaboration and safeguarding this cherished democracy of ours,” he said.
