The Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association Security Agencies Relations Committee (NBA-SARC) and former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Lagos Branch, Mr. Chukwuka Ikwuazom, SAN, attended a valedictory court session organised by the Lagos State Judiciary in honour of the late Prof. Ben Nwabueze, NNOM, CON, SAN.
The high-profile event, which had in attendance, legal practitioners, industry leaders and professionals of diverse backgrounds from across Nigeria provided an opportunity for the legal profession and a grateful nation to pay glowing tributes to a man whose brilliance and forthrightness shone beyond the Ivory Tower.
Mr. Ikwuazom expressed his delight to be part of the valedictory court session to honour the late sage. In his words, “the late Professor Nwabueze’s brilliance and academic achievements were unmatched.” He noted that Professor Nwabueze’s love for his country made him return to Nigeria after his academic programme at the London School of Economics to help establish the Law Faculty of the University of Lagos with his former Professor and mentor, LCB Gower.
Mr. Ikwuazom noted that Professor Nwabueze was a man of prodigious and formidable intellect, authoring over 34 books, 100 conference keynotes, and about 200 peer-reviewed and scientific articles during his active years. These strides, rank him as one of the most erudite legal scholars in Africa.
The late Professor served his Country with dedication, integrity and passion and was a well deserving recipient of the Nigerian National Order of Merit (NNOM) award and Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
With a mind as sharp as a Damascus blade, the late Professor’s dominance in constitutional law will forever be remembered. It was a field of Law in which he was and remains the foremost authority. His influence spanned several African countries whose constitutions have his imprint.
Prof. Nwabueze lived a fulfilled life. As we bid farewell to this colossus of jurisprudence, our sympathies are with his family, colleagues, and the people of Nigeria at this difficult time.
In honouring Prof. Nwabueze’s memory, Mr. Ikwuazom urged all to recommit themselves to the noble pursuit for justice and the relentless pursuit of knowledge, for therein lies the truest tribute to the legacy of Prof. Ben Nwabueze NNOM.
May His soul find eternal repose. Amen
