The legal community assembled in solemnity on January 25, 2024, at the Ceremonial Hall, New High Court Complex, Judiciary Headquarters, Asaba, Delta State, to pay homage to the late Chief George Nwokocha Uwechue, SAN. The special court session, a poignant tribute to the distinguished former chairman of the Body of Benchers, featured the notable presence of Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, who added depth to the occasion with his attendance and heartfelt tribute.
Afam Osigwe, a respected figure in the legal profession, graced the special court session with a dignified presence. Clad in the traditional regalia of legal practitioners, his attendance underscored the significance of the occasion.
In his written tribute, Mazi Afam Osigwe highlighted Chief Uwechue’s unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and equality. He spoke of Chief Uwechue’s legacy as a visionary leader, emphasizing the profound influence he exerted during his tenure as the Chairman of the Body of Benchers. Mazi Afam Osigwe shared anecdotes that illustrated Chief Uwechue’s dedication to mentoring and shaping the next generation of legal professionals, acknowledging him as a beacon of wisdom and humility
In a tribute by the Body of Benchers signed by its chairman, Hon. Justice Mary Odili and delivered on its behalf by Mr Dele Adesina (SAN), noted that “Chief Uwechue was a quintessential practitioner, a rare gem, a great leader, an epitome of humility, a mentor and a respected elder statesman,” adding that “he distinguished and made a name for himself within and outside the legal profession. He was one Nigerian that served the legal profession and the nation diligently and meritoriously in various capacities.”
Nigerians from different walks of life poured glowing tributes on Chief Uwechue. On its part, the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN) said he was very brilliant as a lawyer and astuteness as a politician, adding that Uwechue “appeared as counsel in a large number of important cases and played an active role in the affairs of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).”
President Tinubu describes the death of the elder statesman as a sad loss, extolling his contributions to the legal profession as well as to Nigeria.
“Chief Uwechue was an outstanding lawyer. He was also a leader through and through. He will be sorely missed for his deep insights and legal acumen, in addition to the incredible contributions he made to his community, state, Nigeria, and beyond. May God Almighty grant him rest and his family the strength to bear this painful loss,”
In her tribute the Chief Judge of Delta State, Honourable Justice T.O Diai said “He was a model of integrity, warm, generous with his time and resources, unassuming and disarming in his simplicity. Though he had an unshakable commitment to the legal profession, his most trusted role was that of a devoted father and family man”. Continuing, she said “He lived a fulfilled life in good health and recorded so many remarkable achievements in life within the assertion of Maya Angelou (2028 -2014): “If you are going to live, leave a legacy. Make a mark on the world that can’t be erased. He abided by these immutable words of the great poet and civil rights activist to the extent that he left indelible marks in the sands of time”.
The special court session exuded an atmosphere of reverence, with legal practitioners, judges, and dignitaries united in their respect for Chief George Nwokocha Uwechue.
The special court session stood not only as a farewell to Chief Uwechue but also as a reminder of the enduring spirit of mentorship, camaraderie, and excellence that defines the legal community.
May Chief George Nwokocha Uwechue’s soul rest in eternal peace.
