Benue Judiciary Pays Tribute To Late Justice Adam Onum, Announces Plans For Valedictory Session

The Benue State Judiciary has been thrown into mourning following the death of a former Chief Judge of the state, Justice Adam Ochume Onum.

The judiciary announced his passing in an official statement issued on Thursday by the Protocol Officer of the High Court of Justice, Makurdi, Jooli Terna David, on behalf of the Chief Judge.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Benue State Judiciary described Justice Onum’s death as a significant loss to the judiciary, the legal profession and the country at large.

The statement praised the late jurist for his integrity, extensive knowledge of the law and unwavering commitment to the fair administration of justice. It noted that his contributions to the legal system would remain part of his legacy.

The judiciary also extended its condolences to his immediate family, friends, colleagues and members of the legal community, urging them to remain strong during this difficult period.

It further disclosed that details of his funeral arrangements, as well as plans for a valedictory court session in his honour, would be announced in due course.

The statement concluded with a prayer for God to grant the deceased eternal rest and comfort his family and loved ones.

In a related development, the National Judicial Council (NJC) has directed the Imo State Judicial Service Commission to include the name of the state’s acting Chief Judge, Justice Ijeoma Agugua, on the shortlist of candidates for appointment as substantive Chief Judge.

The council reportedly rejected her exclusion from the list of nominees submitted by the commission, insisting that the most senior judge of the Imo State High Court should be considered for the position.

The directive was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the NJC’s Deputy Director of Information, Kemi Babalola-Ogedengbe, following the council’s 112th meeting held on November 3. The meeting was presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

The council also recommended 28 candidates for various judicial appointments and considered several disciplinary matters during the meeting.

The NJC’s position comes amid an ongoing disagreement over the appointment of a substantive Chief Judge in Imo State. The controversy reportedly intensified after the compulsory retirement of former Chief Judge, Justice T. E. Chukwuemeka Chikeka, in November 2024 over allegations of age falsification.