The appointment of the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) traditionally follows a system where the most senior judge is selected. However, it’s essential to appreciate the wisdom and flexibility built into our legal system.
Fellow Nigerians, let’s not be misled by Kalu and his attempts to create confusion! There is absolutely nothing improper about the President swearing in an acting Chief Justice while awaiting Senate approval. This procedure is fully supported by the laws of our great nation.
Here’s what the Law says:
Chapter VII, Part 1 of the Constitution:
1. To be eligible for the position of Chief Justice of Nigeria or a Justice of the Supreme Court, a person must have been qualified to practice law in Nigeria for at least fifteen years.
2. If the office of the CJN is vacant, or if the current CJN is unable to carry out the responsibilities of the role, the President has the authority to appoint the most senior Justice of the Supreme Court to temporarily fulfill those duties until a permanent appointment is made or the CJN returns to the office.
Kalu, it’s hard to understand why you would suggest that the selection of the CJN should be based on a quota system like Federal Character, rather than the experience and qualifications that the law clearly requires.