President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday nominated the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Justice Tanko Mohammed as substantive CJN.
Tanko had been in an acting capacity since January 25th when the president suspended Walter Onnoghen, a decision he had no constitutional powers to undertake.
The National Judicial Council (NJC) had on Wednesday recommended Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad to Buhari for confirmation as the substantive Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN).
Buhari urged the Senate to accord the confirmation of Justice Muhammed for speedy consideration in a letter to the Senate on Thursday.
The letter read: “In accordance with Section 231 (1) of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which gives the president the power to appoint a Chief Justice of Nigeria on the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and subject to the confirmation of the appointment by the Senate.
“I have the honour to forward the nomination of Honourable Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammed for confirmation as Chief Justice of Nigeria.
“It is my hope that this request will receive the usual expeditious consideration of the distinguished Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Please accept, Senate President, the assurances of my highest consideration.”
