CJN, AGF, others honour late Justice Ayoola at valedictory session

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, on Monday described the late Justice Emmanuel Ayoola as a towering figure in judicial excellence.

She described Ayoola as “a man whose eloquence, moral fortitude, and incisive judgments echoed far beyond Nigeria’s borders, leaving indelible marks on Africa.”

The CJN spoke during a special valedictory court session held in Abuja in honor of the late Justice Ayoola, who passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, Justice Kekere-Ekun remarked that Ayoola was not merely a judge but a judicial philosopher, a tireless champion for justice, and an embodiment of legal activism.

Born in Ilesha, Osun State, Justice Ayoola rose from humble beginnings to become one of Nigeria’s most revered jurists, a journey underscored by resilience, intellect, and unwavering dedication to the principles of justice.

Educated at the University of London and Oxford University, Ayoola returned to Nigeria and soon made his mark—from pioneering private practice to co-founding the Ayoola Brothers law firm in Ibadan.

Justice Ayoola’s career took a meteoric rise with his appointment as a judge of the High Court in the Western Region, a role that launched him onto the international stage.

His influence spanned Africa—from the Gambian Court of Appeal, where he served as Chief Justice, to the Court of Appeal in Seychelles, where he held the position of President.

Renowned for his brilliance, meticulous nature, and ethical fortitude, Justice Ayoola stood as a beacon of courage amid societal corruption and judicial misconduct.

As Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), he championed accountability and transparency, leaving a legacy that paved the way for better governance in Nigeria.

Visibly moved, Justice Kekere-Ekun described the late Justice Ayoola as a “jewel of inestimable value” and “an epitome of judicial excellence.”

“His judgments—meticulously crafted and fearlessly delivered—remain revered as exemplars of clarity and precision,” she said.

“In the solemn ambiance of the Supreme Court, Justice Ayoola’s legacy was celebrated in full light. Though his voice is now silent, it will continue to resonate for generations, reminding the judiciary of the virtues of humility, diligence, and unwavering dedication to justice.”

Also speaking at the event, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, described the late Justice Ayoola as an accomplished jurist.

He noted Justice Ayoola’s contribution to The Gambian nation as exemplary when he was seconded to the country to render assistance in their judicial sector.

The Minister further assured the Judiciary of the continued support of the Federal Government to enable it to continue serving its role as enshrined in the constitution without fear or favor.

He said it was in that light that the government commenced its effort for a general overhaul of some of the nation’s archaic laws to bring them in tandem with contemporary developments.

On his part, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, who was represented by the General Secretary of the Association, said Justice Ayoola’s service to the NBA was pivotal to where it is today.

He emphasized that Justice Ayoola’s conviction that the law will serve the needs of those who seek it can be found in the several sound judgments that defined his time on the Bench and in his human rights advocacy and ideals.

Justice Awa Bah, a Justice of the Supreme Court of The Gambia, who represented the Chief Justice of The Gambia, said Ayoola did not only contribute his great legal mind to the Judiciary of Nigeria alone but was also a bright star for the Judiciary of their country