How old is the chief justice of Nigeria and when is she going to retire?
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) is the head of the judicial branch of the Nigerian government and the most senior judge in the country. The office of the CJN is enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which outlines the duties, appointment process, and tenure of the officeholder. The CJN plays a critical role in ensuring the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary in Nigeria.
### Appointment and Tenure
The Chief Justice of Nigeria is appointed by the President of Nigeria, subject to confirmation by the Nigerian Senate. The appointment process typically involves the recommendation of a qualified candidate by the National Judicial Council (NJC). The individual must be a serving Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and must have been a legal practitioner in Nigeria for at least 15 years.
The CJN holds office until they reach the mandatory retirement age of 70, but they may also be removed by the President based on the recommendation of the NJC, subject to a two-thirds majority vote by the Senate.
### Roles and Responsibilities
The Chief Justice of Nigeria has several key responsibilities:
1. **Judicial Leadership:** As the head of the judiciary, the CJN presides over the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which is the highest court in the country. The CJN ensures the efficient functioning of the court and the delivery of justice.
2. **Constitutional Role:** The CJN plays a vital role in the interpretation and application of the Nigerian Constitution. This includes adjudicating on matters of constitutional importance, such as disputes between the federal and state governments, electoral issues, and fundamental human rights cases.
3. **Administration of Oaths:** The CJN is responsible for administering the oath of office to the President and Vice President of Nigeria. This ceremonial role underscores the importance of the judiciary in upholding the rule of law in the country.
4. **Appointment of Judges:** The CJN is also involved in the appointment of judges to the higher courts, including the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. This is done in collaboration with the NJC, which is chaired by the CJN.
5. **Judicial Reforms:** The CJN plays a critical role in judicial reforms aimed at improving the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of the judiciary. This includes implementing policies and initiatives to tackle corruption within the judiciary and ensuring the timely dispensation of justice.
### Challenges and Controversies
The office of the Chief Justice of Nigeria has faced several challenges over the years. One of the primary concerns has been ensuring the independence of the judiciary from political interference. The CJN must navigate the delicate balance of maintaining impartiality while operating within a politically charged environment.
In recent years, there have been instances where the appointment and removal of the CJN have sparked controversy. For example, in 2019, Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen was controversially suspended by President Muhammadu Buhari, leading to widespread debate about judicial independence and executive overreach.
### Conclusion
The Chief Justice of Nigeria holds a position of great responsibility and influence within the country’s legal and political system. As the head of the judiciary, the CJN plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the rule of law, upholding justice, and ensuring the separation of powers in Nigeria. The challenges faced by the office reflect the broader issues within Nigeria’s judicial system, but the CJN remains a crucial figure in the pursuit of justice and constitutional order in the country.
The newly ordained Chief Judge of Nigeria Hon. Justice Kekere Ekun
