Senate President congratulates Onnoghen on confirmation as CJN

Senate President, Bukola Saraki has extended his congratulations to Justice Walter Onnoghen over

Onnoghen was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, March 1, 2017.

“On behalf of my distinguished colleagues, I congratulate Justice Walter Samuel Onnoghen, CFR, for his well-deserved elevation to the highest judicial office in the land,” Saraki said.

“This achievement should underscore the inspiring reality that a Nigerian can rise to any position he merits. We look forward to productive engagement between the legislature and judiciary under the leadership of the new Chief Justice of Nigeria.

“The Senate will collaborate with the two other arms to support critical reforms and other initiatives that will improve the integrity and the impact of the judiciary as put Nation deepens it's democratic foundations in the lives of its citizens.

“On behalf of my colleagues, I wish Justice Walter Samuel Onnonghen, CFR, a most fruitful tenure as Chief Justice of Nigeria,” he added.

Onnoghen had served in an acting capacity for three months after being appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari on November 10, 2016.

The delay in confirming him attracted controversy and caused many to believe that President Buhari did not want Onnoghen to occupy the position.

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However, on February 8, two days to the expiry of his three-month acting tenure, Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo sent a letter authorizing the Senate to confirm him.

Onnoghen is the first CJN to come from Southern Nigeria in 30 years.