President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has asked the senate to confirm Kudirat Kekere-Ekun as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).

The president’s request was contained in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary, on Tuesday.

Kekere-Ekun has been in acting capacity since August following the statutory retirement of Justice Olukayode Ariwoola as CJN.

Tinubu said his request was pursuant to section 231(1) of the 1999 Constitution as amended which gives the president powers to appoint the CJN on the recommendation of the National Judicial Commission (NJC).

The letter reads in part, “I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun CON for confirmation as CJN.

“While it is my hope that this request will receive the expeditious consideration and confirmation of the senate, please, accept distinguished senate president the assurances of my highest consideration and personal regards.”

Akpabio referred the request to the committee of the whole for consideration on Wednesday.

The Senate thereafter adjourned till Wednesday following the death of Senator Ifeanyi Uba (APC, Anambra South) on July 27 during their recess, in line with the tradition of the National Assembly.