President Muhammadu Buhari has sworn in Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as the Eighteenth Substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria, (CJN).
The swearing-in ceremony, which took place before the commencement of the weekly meeting of the Executive Council of the Federation, was witnessed by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, and the Governors of Oyo and Ondo States, Seyi Makinde and Rotimi Akeredolu, respectively.
Also at the event were other Justices of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Boss Mustapha, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Folasade Yemi-Esan, the Chief of Staff to the President, Professor Ibrahim Gambari and the National Security Adviser, (NSA), Major General Babagana Monguno (Rtd).
Others were ministers who came in to attend the weekly Council Meeting, including Hadi Sirika (Aviation), Olorunnimbe Mamora (Science, Technology and Innovation), Chris Ngige (Labour and Employment), Abubakar Malami (Attorney-General and Justice), Niyi Adebayo (Industry, Trade and Investment), Babatunde Fashola (Works and Housing), Abubakar Aliyu, and others.
Speaking to journalists after the ceremony, Justice Ariwoola appealed to politicians in the country, to allow the judiciary to function properly, as the 2023 elections approach while promising reforms at the apex court.
On his part, Governor Seyi Makinde expressed gratitude on behalf of the people and government of Oyo State to the president.
Meanwhile, the Council observed a minute silence in honour of former Minister for Special Duties and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP), Chief Vincent Ogbulafor, who died recently.
(Editor: Ifeanyi Mark)
