Dr Ben Odoh Reps Ebonyi As CJN Ariwoola Retires; Unveils Autobiography ''Judging With Justice''

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON, officially retired, marking the occasion with the unveiling of his highly anticipated autobiography, _"Judging with Justice."_ The event, held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, was a momentous occasion, drawing the nation's legal luminaries and dignitaries from various sectors.

The ceremony was chaired by former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, GCFR, underscoring the significance of the event. Representing the Executive Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, was Dr. Ben Uruchi Odoh, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ebonyi State and Chairman, Body of States Attorneys General.

In his review of the book, Hon. Justice Benedict B. Kanyip, Ph.D., OFR, President of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, highlighted the profound insights and experiences shared by Justice Ariwoola. The autobiography, which chronicles his remarkable journey from the rural town of Iseyin to the pinnacle of Nigeria’s judiciary, has been praised as a testament to the Nigerian Dream.

Esteemed colleagues of Justice Ariwoola also shared their reflections on his storied career. Hon. Justice Monica Bolna’an Dongban-Mensem, CFR, President of the Court of Appeal, described the book as a narrative that resonates with every young Nigerian, offering a powerful story of "grass to grace." She emphasized that Justice Ariwoola's life and career embody perseverance, hard work, and divine grace.

Hon. Justice John T. Tsoho, OFR, KSS, FCIArb (UK), Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, lauded the retiring Chief Justice for his unwavering dedication to justice, not merely in strict adherence to the law but with a profound understanding of the human condition. Similarly, Lawal Pedro, SAN, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, commended the autobiography as an inspirational guide for current and future generations of legal practitioners.

Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, the Hon. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, encapsulated the sentiments of the day by noting that _"magistratus ostendit virum"_ — the magistracy shows out the man. He praised Justice Ariwoola’s exceptional qualities of brilliance, intelligence, patience, and courtesy, all underpinned by a deep sense of justice and fear of Allah.

Justice Olukayode Ariwoola's retirement marks the end of an era, but through "Judging with Justice," his legacy and judicial philosophy will continue to inspire and guide the legal profession for years to come.