The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged national recognition for the late retired Supreme Court Justice Emmanuel Obioma Ogwuegbu, who passed away at 91. His burial is scheduled for May 2025.

In a statement, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described Justice Ogwuegbu as a symbol of judicial integrity, a staunch defender of human rights, and a custodian of constitutional democracy.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Imo State Government to immortalise his legacy through significant state and national recognition.
Ogwuegbu was lauded for landmark judgements that expanded civil liberties and democratic governance. Among his notable contributions was his affirmation of Nigerians’ right to freedom of association in the landmark case of Gani Fawehinmi v. Inspector General of Police (2002) and his consistent stand against executive lawlessness in cases such as Military Governor of Lagos State v. Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu (1986) and A.G. Lagos State v. A.G. Federation (2003).

HURIWA decried the lack of proper recognition for judicial icons from the South-East, particularly Imo State, including Justice Ogwuegbu and Justice Chukwudifu Oputa. It urged the Imo State Government to institutionalise their legacies by introducing civic education modules in schools and other initiatives to inspire future generations.

The group also highlighted Ogwuegbu’s courageous defence of judicial independence during the contentious 1983 electoral tribunal season, calling it a beacon of hope for the judiciary.

HURIWA stressed that true honour lies in embedding his legacy in Nigeria’s collective consciousness, beyond merely naming streets or buildings after him.