On Thursday, the immediate past Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, called for measures to alleviate the burden on the Supreme Court.
He highlighted that the Court is overwhelmed with cases that should have been resolved at the appellate level.
Justice Ariwoola made these remarks during a valedictory session held in his honor at the Supreme Court in Abuja.
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He noted that delays in case hearings are significantly impacted by the high volume of cases, forcing litigants and lawyers to wait years for resolutions.
He emphasized that the right to a fair hearing can only be assured if cases are addressed promptly, without prolonged waiting periods.
Additionally, he advocated for an increase in the number of judicial officers to ensure timely adjudication of all matters.
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In June 2022, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) following the resignation of Justice Tanko Muhammad due to health reasons. Ariwoola was formally sworn in as CJN in October 2022 after receiving Senate confirmation.
Justice Ariwoola joined the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 2011. Prior to this, he served on the Court of Appeal from 2005 to 2011, having been elevated from the State High Court of Oyo State.
He earned his Bachelor of Laws degree with honors from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile Ife, in July 1980 and was called to the Bar in July 1981, subsequently enrolling as a Solicitor at the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
Justice Ariwoola celebrated his 70th birthday on August 22, 2024.
In related developments, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has recommended Justice Kudirat Motonmori Kekere-Ekun to President Bola Tinubu for appointment as the new CJN.
