A former chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayooĺa, is dead.
Aged 90, Justice Ayoola was also a retired Justice of Supreme Court (JSC) and succeeded the pioneer chairman of the ICPC, the late Justice Mustapha Akanbi, in 2005.
It is important to note that the late jurist served for five years and took a bow from the ICPC in 2010.
In a statement personally signed on Wednesday to mourn Justice Ayoola, the ICPC Chairman, Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu (SAN), said his predecessor died on Tuesday, August 20, 2024.
He said, “It is with profound sorrow and deep respect that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) announces the passing of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (JSC Retired), CON, which occurred on Tuesday, 20th August 2024. On behalf of the Commission, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
“Hon. Justice Ayoola’s demise marks the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of Nigeria’s judiciary and the broader legal profession. A jurist of international repute, his legal career spanned over five decades, encompassing private practice, and notable tenures on the Bench both in Nigeria and abroad. His exceptional integrity, brilliant legal analysis, incisive judgments, and steadfast commitment to justice distinguished him as a towering figure in the legal profession.”
Aliyu noted that during Justice Ayoola’s service as the Chairman of the ICPC from 2005 to 2010, he was unwavering in his commitment to the fight against corruption – “a cause he championed with vigour and a profound sense of duty. His contributions to the Nigerian judiciary and his international engagements, including his service as Chief Justice of The Gambia and his role at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, reflect his dedication to upholding the rule of law and justice globally.”
He added that Justice Ayoola’s exemplary life and work have left an indelible mark on the legal profession, inspiring generations of legal practitioners and public servants.
“As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary jurist, we also celebrate a life well-lived, one dedicated to the pursuit of justice, fairness, and the betterment of society.
“The ICPC and the entire nation have lost a venerable elder statesman. However, his legacy will continue to guide and inspire our ongoing efforts in the battle against corruption, providing hope for a more just and fair society.
“May the Almighty grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. Adieu, My Lord,” Aliyu added.
It is instructive to note that Justice Ayoola served Nigeria in various capacities. He was appointed as a high court judge in 1976 and rose through the ranks to the Supreme Court.
Having attained attained the mandatory retirement age of 70, he retired as a Justice of Supreme Court in 2003.
Born on October 27, 1933, in Ilesa, Osun State, Ayoola attended Temidire Model School from 1939 to 1943 for his primary education and Ilesa Grammar School from 1944 to 1950 for his secondary education.
The late jurist obtained a law degree in 1957 and studied at several institutions, including the University of London and Oxford University London.
The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) appointed Ayoola as a Judge of the Appeals Chamber of the Special Court for Sierra Leone.
The court was set up to try those responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Sierra Leone civil war. He was the President of the court from 2004 to 2005.
Ayoola was awarded the Nigerian National Honour of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his meritorious service to Nigeria and humanity in 2003.
, Justice Emmanuel Olayinka){kind=link}