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

The association argued that Justice Kekere-Ekun’s career is not without controversy, “as she is widely known for her ruling in the 2019 Imo State Governor case, where a candidate who finished fourth in the election was declared the winner”.

According to HURIWA, this verdict was one of the most controversial in the history of the Supreme Court and marked a major turning point in the decline of the judiciary.

Furthermore, HURIWA raised concerns about the integrity of Justice Kekere-Ekun, pointing to unresolved allegations regarding her failure to declare her assets as required by law.

“Despite these serious allegations, the Code of Conduct Bureau has failed to conduct an investigation, leaving many to question the transparency and accountability within the judiciary,” said the statement signed by Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA National Coordinator.

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

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

The association further stated that given the current political dynamics, neither the presidency nor the National Assembly (which the group argues is not independent enough to challenge her appointment) are likely to oppose her becoming the substantive CJN.

In view of these developments, HURIWA is pessimistic about the future of the judiciary in Nigeria.

The association “believes that the tenure of Justice Kekere-Ekun will perpetuate the existing culture of nepotism, corruption and politically motivated decisions that plagued the judiciary under her predecessor.

“The judiciary in its current form 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 is not a sign of positive change. Instead, it is a continuation of the decline of the judiciary.

“Without a judiciary that is independent, transparent and committed to upholding the rule of law, HURIWA argues that Nigerian democracy is in danger and the hope of justice remains an elusive dream for the average Nigerian.”