In a significant development, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Olukayode Ariwoola is set to administer the oath of office to eleven newly appointed Justices of the Supreme Court next week, as reported by Findwhosabi News.
The move follows President Bola Tinubu’s request to the Senate in December, seeking confirmation for 11 judges of the Court of Appeal to be appointed as justices of the Supreme Court. This request was made subsequent to the National Judicial Council (NJC) recommending their elevation.
The Supreme Court currently operates with a diminished bench of 10 justices, owing to the demise of Centus Nweze and the retirements of Amina Augie and Dattijo Muhammad. On December 21, 2023, the Senate granted confirmation to the judges nominated for elevation.
Among those confirmed are Hannatu Sankey, Chidiebere Nwaoma Uwa, Chioma Egondu Nwosu-Iheme, Haruna Simon Tsammani, Moore Aseimo A. Adumein, and Obande Festus Ogbuinya. The list also includes Stephen Jonah Adah, Habeeb Adewale O. Abiru, Jamilu Yammama Tukur, Abubakar Sadiq Umar, and Mohammed Baba Idris.
The impending swearing-in ceremony will restore the Supreme Court to its full strength of 21 justices, in accordance with constitutional provisions. This development holds significance for the nation’s judiciary and is expected to further enhance the capacity of the apex court in dispensing justice.