Ex-warlords of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) and leaders of the Movement for Actualization of Dreams of Niger Deltans (MADND) have congratulated Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun on her assumption of office as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
In a statement released by Josiah Oyakonghan, also known as Commander Oyimi 1, the ex-militant warlords expressed their excitement regarding her pledge to redeem the image of the judiciary, stating that her commitment could restore trust in the judicial system as the last hope for oppressed minorities and the common man.
The statement read, “We the leadership of the Movement for Actualization of the Dreams of Niger Deltans, who were former warlords of the defunct Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND, heartily convey our warmest congratulations to Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, as she assumes office as the new Chief Justice of Nigeria.”
The group specifically commended Justice Kekere-Ekun for her remarks during the commencement of the 2024/2025 new legal year of the apex court, where she swore in 87 new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN). They expressed concerns about the current state of the judiciary, which they believe has shifted from being a bastion of hope to an entity that sometimes collaborates with influential politicians to promote electoral fraud, malpractices, and embezzlement of public funds.
They urged the new CJN to uphold justice, dignity, and orderliness, while advising caution against politicians known for questionable records in governance and electoral integrity.
The ex-warlords concluded their statement by expressing their hope that under her leadership, Nigeria could enjoy a renewed sense of hope and that she would stand firm in defending democratic principles, which would positively reflect on Nigeria’s image internationally. They stated, “We are keenly watching, and we hope and pray you succeed!”