President Tinubu mourns late eminent jurist, Justice Ogwuegbu

President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of Justice Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, a former Justice of the Supreme Court and to Nigeria’s judiciary, on the passing of the legal luminary.

The President, in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, his Special Adviser (Information & Strategy), also conveyed 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,” the statement noted.

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 (NIALS).

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 of 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,” Onanuga said in the statement.

“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 concluded.