Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), has officially retired, marking his exit with a strong call for reforms to reduce the overwhelming caseload of the Supreme Court.
During his valedictory session at the Supreme Court in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola highlighted the need for a more streamlined judiciary, emphasizing that many cases reaching the apex court should have been resolved at the appellate level. He pointed out that the delays in justice delivery often stem from the extensive backlog of cases, which undermines the right to a fair and timely hearing.
Justice Ariwoola’s retirement comes after serving as CJN since June 2022, following his appointment by then-President Muhammadu Buhari. He was later confirmed by the Senate and officially sworn in in October 2022. Ariwoola’s judicial career began with his appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court in 2011, following his tenure as a Justice of the Court of Appeal from 2005 to 2011.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun has been recommended by the National Judicial Council (NJC) to President Bola Tinubu as the next CJN.
