Biography of new cjn
You're referring to the new Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola!
Here's a brief biography:
Early Life and Education
Justice Olukayode Ariwoola was born on August 22, 1958, in Iseyin, Oyo State, Nigeria. He hails from a family of six children. He attended St. John's Primary School, Iseyin, and later proceeded to St. Michael's School, Eruwa, for his secondary education.
Ariwoola earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1980. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1981.
Career
Justice Ariwoola started his career as a lawyer in 1981, working with the Ministry of Justice, Oyo State. He later joined the law firm of Adebayo Adefarati & Co. in Ibadan, where he practiced law for several years.
In 1992, Ariwoola was appointed as a Judge of the High Court of Justice, Oyo State. He served in this capacity until 2003, when he was elevated to the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division.
In 2011, Ariwoola was appointed as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the highest court in the land. He has served in this capacity for over 11 years, handling numerous landmark cases and contributing to the development of Nigerian jurisprudence.
Notable Cases
Justice Ariwoola has been involved in several high-profile cases, including:
- The case of the former Governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, who was accused of corruption and money laundering.
- The case of the former Governor of Plateau State, Joshua Dariye, who was accused of embezzling public funds.
- The case of the former Governor of Taraba State, Jolly Nyame, who was accused of misappropriating public funds.
Awards and Recognition
Justice Ariwoola has received several awards and recognition for his outstanding contributions to the judiciary, including:
- The National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) Award in 2014.
- The Distinguished Service Star of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (DSSRS) Award in 2015.
- The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Award for Outstanding Service to the Legal Profession in 2016.
Personal Life
Justice Ariwoola is married to his wife, Bolanle, and they have three children together. He is a devout Christian and a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
Appointment as CJN
On May 27, 2023, Justice Ariwoola was sworn in as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria, succeeding Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad. His appointment was announced by President Muhammadu Buhari, following the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).