The death of Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, though coming at a very ripe old age, is still difficult to accept with equanimity, especially within the legal profession.
Justice Oputa gave all his life and energy for the development of the law, the maintenance of the etiquette of the legal profession and the sanctity of the Bench. Both as a Judge of the High Court and as a Justice of other superior courts, his incisive judgments, robust and notable pronouncements and quintessential erudition in all his decisions on the Bench, have left an indelible mark in the legal profession. His calmness and remarkable wit on the Bench has since laid down a mark for other judicial officers to follow.
Even as a retired Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Oputa did not tire out. His renowned chairmanship of the Oputa Panel that was set up by President Obasanjo to address past wrongs in the country still remains a watershed in the annals of this country.
Today, we pay tribute to this judicial colossus; this uncommon jurist; this Justice of Justices; this Lord Denning of our time and this patriot par excellence.
Rest in peace. My sincere condolence to my big brother, Charly Boy, other family members and my learned colleagues.
Thank you.
FESTUS KEYAMO, ESQ.
