President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his condolences following the death of Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, a former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, acknowledging his contributions to the country’s judiciary.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu conveyed his sympathies to Justice Ogwuegbu’s family, as well as to members of the bar and bench across the nation who are mourning the loss of the respected jurist.
“Justice Ogwuegbu’s commitment to justice, integrity, and the rule of law was unmatched,” President Tinubu said. “He played a pivotal role in transforming Nigeria’s judiciary into an institution where justice prevails without fear or favor.”
President Tinubu highlighted that Justice Ogwuegbu’s legacy of discipline, excellence, and integrity has left an enduring impact on Nigeria’s legal landscape. He pointed to the late Justice’s influential rulings on federalism, university autonomy, individual rights, banking regulations, and monetary policy as benchmarks that will continue to guide the nation’s legal system.
“His landmark judgments will remain a reference point in Nigerian law for generations to come,” the President added.
Justice Ogwuegbu, who was born in 1933 in Amainyi, Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, dedicated more than 50 years to the judiciary, culminating in his service as a Justice of the Supreme Court. He also served as the President of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and chaired the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into human rights abuses following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
Reflecting on the late jurist’s distinguished career, President Tinubu noted that Justice Ogwuegbu mentored countless judges and lawyers, shaping the next generation of Nigeria’s legal minds.
The President offered prayers for divine comfort for the family and for eternal peace for Justice Ogwuegbu’s soul, honoring his contributions to the nation.
“His legacy will continue to inspire those who seek justice and uphold the law in Nigeria,” said President Tinubu.
