Late Chief Richard Akinjide (SAN)
A HUMAN Rights lawyer, Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN) has described the demise of a former Attorney General of the Federation/Minister of Justice, Chief Richard Akinjide as a great loss to the legal profession and country at large.
Ozekhome made the remarks in a statement he issued on Tuesday to mourn the legal icon who until his death was a force to reckon with in the legal profession and exceptionally fought for the voiceless in the society.
“I join millions of Nigerians across the world to mourn Chief Richard Akinjide, SAN, a legal colossus, quintessential jurisprudential theoretician, a very brilliant Constitutional lawyer and political titan.
“He was once at home with friends as he was with enemies. He drew legal and political punches and took same in equal or more measure. Nigerians will never forget his creative interpretation of the constitutional provision of 12 -2/3 in ushering in the government of Alhaji Shehu Shagari.
“I was with him at the 2014 National Conference where his vast intellect, gargantuan experience and deep knowledge of the law and politics easily played out. As Attorney General under Shagari, he ensured some relief to those sentenced to death by execution. He was a complete Bar man, astute political strategist, uncommon forensic Advocate”, Ozekhome stated.
Late Akinjide was a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Fellow, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (United Kingdom), among others. He also served as a chieftain in the Olubadan of Ibadan’s court of clan nobles. He died at the age of 89.
Ozekhome prayed for his soul to rest in peace and the fortitude for his family to bear the great loss.