The Iseyin –born Justice Olu Ariwoola was sworn –in on Monday as the acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN0 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
President Buhari in a handshake with the New CJN
President Muhammadu Buhari administered the oath of office to Justice Ariwoola in a brief swearing-in ceremony held at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
CJN Taking his oath of office
60-year-old Tajudeen Ariwoola Olukayode took over the baton of CJN from the former CJN Tanko Muhammed. The appointment is, however, subject to confirmation by the National Judicial Council(NJC)
Ariwoola in a handshake with VP Osinbajo
Recall that Justice Muhammed resigned from his appointment as the CJN, Sunday night because of ill health.
As a sign of appreciation for the services rendered to the country and this administration, in particular, by the former CJN, President Buhari decorated Tanko Muhammed with the honour of Grand Commander of Nigeria(GCN).
Taking the oath of office, Ariwoola swore to be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Federal Government of Nigeria and also to defend the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. He was given a handshake by the President, Muhammadu Buhari.
In accordance with the laid down procedure of the Nigeria Judicial Council, Justice Ariwoola is the next most senior Justice of the supreme court at the time of the exit of Justice Tanko Muhammed.
Until his resignation, reports had it that the ex-CJN was ill.
It was also reported by various media about the bad state of affairs in the apex court before his resignation, but he was unable to salvage the situation despite frantic efforts by many Justices of the supreme court pointing his attention to the issues.
Various complaints were brought forward such as lack of residential accommodation and official vehicles at the court, while the former CJN was busy trotting out of the country with his domestic staff and family but not allowing other judicial staff to travel with even an assistant on foreign trips.