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Justice Olukayode Ariwoola retired as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) on Thursday, August 22, marking the end of his tenure with a strong call for reforms to ease the burden on the Supreme Court.
Speaking at a valedictory session held in his honour at the Supreme Court in Abuja, Justice Ariwoola highlighted the apex court's overwhelming caseload, noting that many of these cases should have been resolved at the appellate level.
"The right to a fair hearing can only be guaranteed when lawyers and litigants do not have to wait for so long to have their cases heard," he emphasised.
He also called for the appointment of more judicial officers to ensure timely adjudication of cases.
Justice Ariwoola's retirement comes as he reaches the mandatory retirement age 70.
His tenure as CJN began in June 2022, following the resignation of his predecessor, Justice Tanko Muhammad, due to health issues.
Ariwoola was confirmed as CJN by the Senate in October 2022 after serving as a Justice of the Supreme Court since 2011.
Justice Kekere-Ekun tipped as next CJN
As Justice Ariwoola steps down, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as the next CJN.
Pulse Nigeria reported that if President Tinubu approves the recommendation by the NJC, Justice Kekere-Ekun will become the second female CJN in Nigeria.
Maryam Mukhtar was the first female Chief Justice of Nigeria, serving from July 2012 to November 2014.
This transition marks a significant moment for the Nigerian judiciary as it seeks to address the challenges highlighted by the outgoing CJN.