Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the 22nd Chief Justice of Nigeria, has officially hung up his robes after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70, closing the chapter on a remarkable judicial journey.
Born on August 22, 1954, Justice Ariwoola’s retirement not only celebrates his legacy but also the profound impact he has made on Nigeria’s legal landscape.
Having ascended to the Supreme Court bench on November 22, 2011, he took the helm as the substantive CJN on June 27, 2022, following the departure of Justice Tanko Muhammad. His formal confirmation by the Nigerian Senate on September 21, 2022, marked a pivotal moment for the nation’s judiciary.
As the Supreme Court prepares to honour his service, whispers of change fill the air with strong indications that Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun may be poised to step into the role of Chief Justice of Nigeria, heralding a new era for the country’s justice system.