CurrentReport Blog In a recent ceremony celebrating the 88th birthday of retired Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Godwin Ude Ononiba, Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo hailed the judiciary in Anambra State as the most hardworking in Nigeria. The event, which took place at the weekend, also featured the public presentation of Justice Ononiba’s book, Wisdom On The Bench: The Enduring Legacies of Godwin Ude Ononiba.
Governor Soludo praised the diligent work of Anambra’s judiciary, noting that the state has the highest number of cases per judge in the country, second only to Lagos. He expressed his admiration for Justice Ononiba’s legacy and the broader contributions of the judiciary in Anambra State.
Soludo Commends Anambra Judiciary’s Hard Work
Governor Soludo, while speaking at the event, emphasized the crucial role of the judiciary in ensuring justice and order within the country. “We are here to celebrate Justice Ononiba and what he stands for. When I see people of his ilk, I remember the institution they are leaving behind for us,” Soludo remarked. He further stressed that Anambra’s judges are among the most hardworking in Nigeria, stating, “We have the highest number of cases per judge in the country, and this is only after Lagos.”
The Governor also called on the judiciary to continue its pivotal role in upholding justice in the country. Soludo reaffirmed his commitment to celebrating legal practitioners like Justice Ononiba, whose contributions continue to resonate within the legal community.
Book Launch Highlights Justice Ononiba’s Legacy
The ceremony also included the public presentation of Wisdom On The Bench, a book that highlights the career and enduring influence of Justice Ononiba. The book offers an in-depth look at his contributions to the judiciary and his exemplary character during his tenure as Chief Judge of Anambra State.
During the event, Prof. Ilochi Okafor, a former Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, reviewed the book and expressed his admiration for the retired justice. Okafor described Justice Ononiba as a humble and revered figure within the legal community. He recalled how Ononiba’s humility made him a delight for junior lawyers, who often found themselves arguing cases against more experienced counsel.
Emergence of Young, Dynamic Judges in Anambra
A key highlight of the event was the recognition of Anambra State’s young, enterprising, and dynamic judges. Prof. Okafor praised these judges for their enthusiasm and commitment to delivering justice. According to Okafor, these young judges are addressing the backlog of cases in the state and delivering judgments that serve as reference points for what Justice Ononiba exemplified.
“These young judges have the desire and passion to do justice, and what they need is to be groomed and sharpened. They are very enthusiastic to work,” Okafor remarked, adding that Justice Ononiba’s mentorship is vital in helping them grow and excel on the bench.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Excellence
The event was chaired by retired Supreme Court judge, Hon Justice Anthony Iguh (Rtd), and attended by several eminent jurists and legal professionals from across Nigeria. The gathering not only celebrated Justice Ononiba’s illustrious career but also highlighted the ongoing efforts to nurture a new generation of judges who will continue his legacy of excellence and dedication to justice.
Governor Soludo’s comments and the celebration of Justice Ononiba’s contributions serve as a reminder of the vital role the judiciary plays in maintaining law and order, and the importance of mentoring young legal minds to uphold the integrity of the justice system in Nigeria.
