Breaking: Senate Confirms Onnoghen As Substantive CJN

MICHAEL AKINOLA

The Nigerian Senate has finally confirmed the nomination of Justice Walter Onnoghen as the substantive chief justice of Nigeria.

The confirmation came after more than an hour screening with various senators interrogating Justice Onnoghen.

The hearing, which began at about midday had the Senate dissolved to the Committee of the whole for the confirmation hearing of Justice Onnoghen as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The senate expressed delight at Onnoghen’s nomination, noting that he was picked by the president after much deliberation, thus attesting to his character.

As the hearing commenced, Justice Onnoghen introduced himself as he prepared to take questions from the Senators.

He took the Senators through his educational background, his service year at the Lagos Ministry of Justice and career till date.

Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu fired the first salvo as he described the judiciary as the last hope of the common man, and asked the CJN how a common man will be guaranteed justice, henceforth.

Justice Onnoghen said in accordance with rules and regulations, “we are working to stem this and encourage transparency in our dealings.”

He said the Judiciary is not the last hope of the common man, “but the last hope of every man.”

Senate Chief Whip, Olusola Adeyeye called for modernisation of the court processes, saying in the United Kingdom, hardly would anyone see lawyers or judges carry pen to jot during proceedings.

He said there are too many cases at the Supreme Court and asked why bench members interfere in the nomination of Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

Senate President Saraki thanked his colleagues and the Acting CJN and said that the senate are enlightened by some of the views he presented.

He congratulated him, saying more than anyone else, he appreciated the responsibility and challenges ahead of him.

He then put the question to the whole house and Justice Onnoghen was confirmed as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

He then took a bow.