President Muhammadu Buhari on Wednesday, sworn in Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria, CJN.
Gatekeepers News reports that the ceremony took place shortly before this week’s Federal Executive Council, FEC, meeting commenced.
In attendance were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and two Governors, Seyi Makinde and Rotimi Akeredolu of Oyo and Ondo States respectively.
Witnesses to the ceremony included other Justices of the Supreme Court; the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan; the President’s Chief of Staff, Professor Ibrahim Gambari and the National Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. Babagana Monguno (retd.).
Others include ministers who were attending the weekly Council meeting, Chris Ngige (Labour and Employment); Abubakar Malami (Attorney-General and Justice); Hadi Sirika (Aviation); Olorunnimbe Mamora (Science, Technology, and Innovation); Niyi Adebayo (Industry, Trade, and Investment); Babatunde Fashola (Works and Housing); Abubakar Aliyu, amongst others.
Ariwoola, who spoke to the State House correspondents after being sworn in, urged politicians contesting for various electoral offices in next year’s elections to allow the judiciary to function properly.
The new CJN also promised to pursue reforms at the Supreme court across several lines such as speed of justice delivery and welfare of judicial officers.
In his remarks, Governor Seyi Makinde appreciated the President for Ariwoola’s confirmation, on behalf of the people and government of Oyo State.
Before the FEC meeting commenced proper, the Council observed a minute’s silence in honour of former Minister for Special Duties and Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, Vincent Ogbulafor, who passed away recently.
