By Chinwe Onuigbo, Awka
In a statement by Prof. Mike Ozekhome, SAN, the public presentation and launch of a landmark book on retired Justice Samson Odemwingie Uwaifo will take place on February 19, 2025, in Lagos. Titled "A Legacy of Kurisprudential Wisdom and Substantive Justice", the book encapsulates the essence of Justice Uwaifo's illustrious judicial career.
"This book confirms all I have written and reflected on regarding the judicial journey of our legendary Justice Uwaifo," stated Prof. Ozekhome.
Through the natural vicissitudes of life and the aging process, Justice Uwaifo, once known for his clean-shaven appearance, now proudly sports a distinguished grey beard. While he may carry his tall, elegant frame with a slight, graceful bend, the quintessence of the man and his immense mental acumen remain intact, uncorrupted by age. He continues to radiate vitality, akin to the vibrant tendrils of yam in the rainy season (thank you, Chinua Achebe, for your epic Things Fall Apart).
Indeed, Sir, you have lived up to your name—"UWAIFO" translates to "Wealth that does not end." Your wealth of character is truly boundless. Furthermore, your middle name "ODEMWINGIE" connotes "fortified prosperity." Soldier on, sir. May God grant Justice Uwaifo long life, good health, and peace that surpasses all understanding as he bravely navigates the path toward his centenary. Yours is truly Genesis 6:3 and Philippians 4:17.
In a literary tribute to Justice Uwaifo, Prof. Ozekhome remarked, "The launch of Justice Samson Odemwingie Uwaifo's book not only celebrates a remarkable life but also embodies a legacy that has profoundly impacted the legal landscape of Nigeria. An oracle among jurists, Justice Uwaifo, who celebrated his 90th birthday on January 7, 2025, stands as a symbol of unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness. His rich experiences, collective wisdom, and indelible spirit of inquiry echo the Biblical proverb, 'A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches.’ As he reflects on his extensive career, there lies an urgent appeal for a return to judicial integrity and commitment to the rule of law—principles he embodies with every breath."
Justice Uwaifo's journey began in Benin City, where values such as honor, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence were instilled in him from an early age. As the son of a hardworking father, young Odemwingie faced adversities, including the loss of his mother at birth. Undeterred by challenges, he displayed extraordinary determination, vividly showcased when, at just 12, he undertook a treacherous journey to secure funds for his education, paving the way for a future devoted to serving others.
Initially apprehensive about pursuing law, viewing it through a lens tarnished by misconceptions, Justice Uwaifo’s perspective shifted dramatically upon witnessing the brilliance of notable figures in the field. Inspired by their integrity, he decided to study law, quickly recognizing it as not merely a path for personal advancement but as a crucial platform for championing justice and advocating for the marginalized, a foundation that would define his career.
Despite facing financial hurdles while studying law in England, Justice Uwaifo undertook menial jobs to support himself. His resilience proved fruitful as he successfully completed his LLB (Hons) and Bar Finals from the University of London and Inner Temple within a remarkable timeframe. His scholarly achievements underscore his belief that law is not merely a profession but an instrument of social engineering meant to catalyze change and promote justice.
Upon returning to Nigeria, Justice Uwaifo established himself as a fierce advocate for the common man. His early legal practice was characterized by a commitment to fairness, often representing clients who could not afford legal representation. This dedication became the cornerstone of his judicial philosophy, emphasizing a legal system that champions equality and protects the vulnerable against exploitation and injustice.
Justice Uwaifo’s appointment as a High Court Judge in 1975 marked the beginning of a transformative judicial career. He was widely acclaimed for his integrity, profound reasoning, and commitment to delivering justice. His courtroom became known as a sanctuary for fairness, where each judgment was guided by a sincere desire to uphold human dignity and societal values. "Judges must act as God’s nominated agents," he would often assert, reinforcing the ethical responsibility that judges bear in society.
"My first encounter with Justice Uwaifo in the early eighties was a humbling experience. As a novice lawyer, I presented a case before him, and his gracious acknowledgment of my efforts instilled a confidence within me that would shape my career. His ability to nurture young talents exemplified his role not just as a judge, but also as a mentor, encouraging countless lawyers to pursue excellence in advocacy and judicial practice."
Justice Uwaifo’s insistence on legal precision distinguished him as a jurist. His ruling in *Ekpenyong v. Etim (1990)* attests to this attribute, as he emphasized the significance of clarity in legal arguments, urging practitioners to prioritize substance over superficiality. This insistence on excellence elevated the standards of legal practice in Nigeria, ensuring that advocates uphold the law’s integrity.
His tenure on the bench was characterized by a keen awareness of societal dynamics. In cases like *Okpuruwu v. Okpokam (1988)*, Justice Uwaifo harmonized traditional perspectives with modern legal principles. His insights reflected a commitment to evolve the law in tandem with societal changes, asserting that justice must resonate with the realities faced by ordinary citizens.
Justice Uwaifo's elevation to the Supreme Court in November 1998 solidified his status as a transformative figure in the judiciary. His judgments transcended legal technicalities, addressing broader societal moral issues and reinforcing the judiciary’s role in maintaining public trust. His fearless stance on justice, exemplified in landmark cases such as *Peter Nemi v. Attorney General Lagos State (1996)*, emphasized his belief that the judiciary must actively shape the moral fabric of society.
In a resonant takeaway from his speeches, Justice Uwaifo admonished, "No Judge worth their name should feel inclined to hide any element of their head in the closet through fear or favor, or from corrupt motives or simply on grounds of intellectual compromise when reaching a decision. He must, to the best of his ability, act as God's nominated agent."
Justice Uwaifo's rulings on jurisdiction, particularly in cases such as *N.D.I.C v. C.B.N. & Anor (2002)*, further cemented his legacy as a jurist of exceptional clarity and insight.
"Democracy is most obviously seen to be necessary when the tendency of an autocrat puts justice at risk. One sure way of ensuring democracy stays on course is to entrench justice," he asserted.
The legacy of Justice Samson Uwaifo transcends the courtroom, reflecting the enduring impact of a life dedicated to justice, integrity, and the preservation of democratic ideals. His retirement from the Supreme Court in 2005 marked the end of a golden era in judicial service—one unparalleled in its depth and richness.
As we celebrate the life and contributions of Hon. Justice Samson Odemwingie Uwaifo, we are reminded of the vital role that integrity plays in the legal system. His journey embodies what it means to serve as a jurist—an unwavering commitment to justice, moral courage, and a profound understanding of humanity. The book launch is not merely a commemoration of a life well-lived, but a clarion call for a resurgence of the values he epitomizes within Nigeria’s judiciary. In an era when the sanctity of the law is increasingly threatened, the lessons imparted by Justice Uwaifo serve as a beacon of hope for all who believe in the power of justice to transform lives.