CJN: Atiku Reacts to Tanko’s Resignation, Justice Ariwoola’s Appointment

Former vice president Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the abrupt resignation of Justice Tanko Muhammad from his position as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

DAILY REPORT had reported how the Supreme Court Justice resigned his appointment on Monday.

Tanko had in a letter dated June 26, cited ill health as the reason for resigning his position.

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, the next most senior Justice of the apex court was promplty sworn in as acting Chief Justice of Nigeria by President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday.

However, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar has described Tanko’s resignation as commendable.

Atiku also extended encomiums to the new CJN, tasking him to ensure separation of powers is maintained.

Atiku said, “The decision of Justice Tanko Muhammad to vacate office as the Chief Justice of Nigeria is commendable. I wish him well, even as I commend him for his action and service to the nation.

“I wish the newly sworn-in Acting CJN, Justice Olukayode Ariowoola, success as he steps in to fill the gap and assure him of my commitment to advancing the frontiers of judicial independence and the promotion of separation of powers as the bedrock of deepening democracy and development”.