President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Justice Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, a former Supreme Court judge, offering heartfelt condolences to his family, the legal community, and the judiciary at large.
Justice Ogwuegbu, born in 1933 in Amainyi, Ihitte-Uboma council area of Imo State, devoted over five decades to Nigeria’s judiciary, leaving an enduring legacy through his service, mentorship, and landmark rulings.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended Justice Ogwuegbu’s pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s legal framework, noting that his steadfast commitment to justice, discipline, and integrity had left an “indelible mark” on the nation.
Read Also: National Judicial Council Speaks On Alleged Death Of Justices Mistura Bolaji-Yusuf, Boloukuoromo Moses Ugo Who Affirmed Tinubu’s Election As Nigerian President
The President praised Justice Ogwuegbu’s enduring legacy, highlighting his influence in guiding generations of judges and lawyers across the country.
Throughout his distinguished career, Justice Ogwuegbu served on the Supreme Court, presiding over landmark cases on issues such as federalism, university autonomy, banking regulations, and individual rights under Nigeria’s Constitution. His rulings have become foundational to Nigerian jurisprudence.
In addition to his time on the Supreme Court, Justice Ogwuegbu served as President of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and chaired the Judicial Commission of Inquiry in 1999, which examined human rights abuses under Nigeria’s military regimes.
Reflecting on his passing, President Tinubu stated that Justice Ogwuegbu’s life of discipline, excellence, and integrity remains a powerful example within Nigeria’s judiciary. He expressed hope that the late judge’s contributions would continue to inspire future generations, ensuring that his legacy endures in the ongoing pursuit of justice in Nigeria.
Read Also: Two Nigerian Judges Sacked
“President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, a former justice of the Supreme Court and Nigeria’s judiciary, on his passing.
“The President also conveys his sympathies to members of the bar and bench across the nation mourning this distinguished jurist’s death. Throughout his illustrious career, Justice Ogwuegbu mentored countless judges and lawyers.
“Born in 1933 in Amainyi, Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, Justice Ogwuegbu dedicated over five decades to the judiciary, culminating in his appointment as a Justice of Nigeria’s Supreme Court. He also served as President of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
“After Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, Justice Ogwuegbu was appointed to chair the Judicial Commission of Inquiry, which investigated human rights abuses during the military regime.
“President Tinubu honours Justice Ogwuegbu’s enduring legacy and commends his unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law.
“He reflects on Justice Ogwuegbu’s pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s judiciary into an institution where justice prevails without fear or favour.
“President Tinubu believes that Justice Ogwuegbu’s championing the values of discipline, excellence, and integrity throughout his life has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s legal landscape.
“The President emphasises that Justice Ogwuegbu’s steadfast dedication to discipline, excellence, and integrity has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s legal landscape.
“According to President Tinubu, Justice Ogwuegbu’s landmark judgments, particularly those on federalism, university autonomy, individual rights under the Nigerian Constitution, banking regulations, and monetary policy, will continue to serve as guiding principles and reference points in Nigerian law.
“President Tinubu offers prayers for divine comfort for the family of the late elder statesman and eternal peace for Justice Ogwuegbu’s soul,” the statement reads.
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaihFajBadmT29ufud2Z
