The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has said that steps are being taken to solve the major problems facing the country’s judiciary.
She spoke on Wednesday in Abuja during a special court session held to honour the late Supreme Court Justice, Emmanuel Ogwuegbu.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said the judiciary must regain the trust of the public.
She explained that there are serious issues like delays in delivering justice, a lack of resources, and a loss of public confidence.
However, she assured that efforts are ongoing to fix them.
“This is not just a time to pay tribute, but also to think deeply. We are working hard to bring about change.
“Justice Ogwuegbu showed us what is possible through honesty, knowledge, service, and courage. Let us follow his example,” she said.
She described Justice Ogwuegbu’s death as a great loss to Nigeria, calling him one of the best legal minds in the country.
According to her, he was more than just a judge, he was a symbol of justice who served with dedication for over 40 years.
She praised his deep respect for the Constitution and the rule of law, saying his judgments helped shape the country’s legal system and democracy.
“He was a brilliant, thoughtful, and fair judge,” she said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun added that his work strengthened Nigeria’s legal system and promoted freedom, good governance, and justice. She said his decisions were not just about solving cases but also about upholding values and guiding the country in the right direction.
Justice Emmanuel Ogwuegbu died on October 28, 2024, at the age of 91.
He was born on March 16, 1933, in Amainyi, Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State.
He began his education at St. Theresa’s School, Amainyi Ihitte, and later attended St. Patrick’s College in Calabar.
He studied law at the University of Liverpool and was called to the English Bar in 1961. He became a lawyer in Nigeria the following year.
He later earned a master’s degree in law from the University of London.
He became a High Court Judge in Imo State in 1976 and later served in different parts of the state.
He was promoted to the Court of Appeal in 1987 and joined the Supreme Court in 1992.
Throughout his career, from private law practice to serving as a magistrate, judge, and Supreme Court justice, Justice Ogwuegbu was known for his excellence and dedication.
In 1999, he was sent to serve on the Supreme Court of The Gambia.
He later returned to Nigeria and retired from the bench in 2003 after reaching the retirement age of 70.