Osinbajo Swears In Onnoghen As Chief Justice Of Nigeria

Nigeria's acting president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN) has sworn in Walter Onnoghen as the 17th Chief Justice of Nigeria.

The swearing-in ceremony was conducted at the council chambers of Aso Rock presidential villa in Abuja, on Tuesday to the admiration of all present.

Onnoghen, a native of Cross River, was first appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari as acting CJN on November 10, 2016 after the retirement of former CJN, Mahmoud Mohammed.

Osinbajo returned his name to the Senate for confirmation as substantive CJN on February 8.

The Senate screened and confirmed him on March 1.

Speaking earlier, the new CJN said his complete loyalty was with the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

He pledged to continue to keep to his oath of office and solicited the cooperation of all Nigerians.

Part of the swearing-in ceremony was the investiture of Grand Commander of the Niger, GCON, on the new CJN. The award, Nigeria’s second highest national honour, was given by Osinbajo.

The event was witnessed by Onnoghen’s family, Senate President Bukola Saraki, former CJN Mohammed Mahmud, Justices of the Supreme Court and other divisions, as well as Ministers.

Onoghen said, "To Nigerians who had kept the faith, some have even fasted, I say a big thank you."