Enugu's Late Justice C.C Nweze Honoured with a Valedictory Session at the Supreme Court, Abuja
The legal community, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), came together to pay tribute to the late Supreme Court Justice, C.C. Nweze. Justice Nweze's valedictory court session, held to commemorate his remarkable legal career, was a testament to his exceptional legal acumen and unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.
Justice Nweze, who was born on September 25, 1958, in Obollo, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, embarked on his legal journey by gaining admission to the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC) in 1979. He graduated with a degree in Law in 1983 and began his journey towards becoming a distinguished jurist.
During the valedictory session, the CJN lauded Justice Nweze as a unique and principled figure with a radical dedication to justice and the rule of law. He emphasized that despite his simple and unassuming appearance, Justice Nweze was known for his unwavering principles and strict disposition.
The CJN expressed, "He was always very warm and engaging. Like all great men, my Lord was a man of paradox; simple without being simplistic in disposition; elitist and dignified in carriage, yet he related exceptionally well with everyone around him, especially the underprivileged and the downtrodden in the society.”
Furthermore, the CJN highlighted Justice Nweze's commitment to mediation and reconciliation, in addition to his role as a dogged advocate for the causes he believed in.
Justice Nweze's illustrious career took him to the Court of Appeal Bench in 2008 and, on October 29, 2014, he achieved a well-deserved elevation to the Supreme Court Bench. At the Supreme Court, he exhibited immense scholarship and rare jurisprudential candor. His judgements were noted for their academic flavor and intellectual depth, providing valuable insight on a wide range of legal issues.
The Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), acknowledged the overwhelming workload faced by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, emphasizing that it is one of the most overworked courts in the world. He recognized Justice Nweze's contributions to the development of the nation's judiciary, noting that his legacy will continue to shine as an example for all.
The Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), represented by Damion Dodo (SAN), praised Justice Nweze's distinguished service on the Bench, highlighting his delivery of qualitative judgments that enriched jurisprudence.
The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), also paid tribute to Justice Nweze, acknowledging his significant contributions to the growth of Nigeria's jurisprudence.
The valedictory court session in honor of Justice C.C. Nweze celebrated a remarkable legal career that left an indelible mark on the Nigerian judicial system, leaving a legacy of scholarly judgments, dedication to mediation, and a commitment to a just society.