Acting president Yemi Osinbajo on Tuesday at the State House swore in Justice Walter Onnoghen as the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Onnoghen was also decorated with Nigeria’s second-highest national honour of the Grand Commander of Order of the Niger (GCON).
The 66-year-old was appointed acting chief justice by President Muhammadu Buhari on November 10, 2016, after the retirement of former CJN Mahmud Mohammed.
His name was, however, not forwarded to the Senate for confirmation as the substantive CJN.
Buhari’s reluctance to seek confirmation of Onnoghen attracted widespread condemnation.
Relying on constitutional provisions, Osinbajo finally sent Onnoghen’s name to the Senate on February 7.
The Senate on Wednesday last week screened and confirmed the nomination.
Speaking at the swearing-in on Tuesday, Osinbajo said President Buhari, who is on medical vacation in the United Kingdom, has confidence in the new chief justice to perform creditably.
“Yesterday I had a discussion with President Buhari, not only did he extend his personal warm wishes and congratulations, he asked that I personally convey that to you, and I do so now,” Osinbajo said.
“I congratulate you on behalf of Mr. President, all members of your family and the entire judiciary. I believe that the choice that the people of this nation have made is a right choice indeed and I pray that you will leave up to all of the expectations indeed. I pray that the almighty God will guide and direct you as you deliver on all of the promises and expectations of the people of this nation.
The new CJN pledged his complete loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He pledged to continue to keep to his oath of office and solicited the cooperation of all Nigerians.
“To Nigerians who had kept the faith, some have even fasted, I say a big thank you,” he said.
The swearing-in ceremony was witnessed by Onnoghen’s family, Senate President Bukola Saraki, former CJNs, Justices of the Supreme Court and other divisions, as well as ministers.
