President Bola Tinubu has expressed unhappiness over the death of former Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Adam Ochume Onum, describing him as a distinguished jurist whose contributions to the judiciary and public service can be remembered.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a assertion issued on Friday, November 6, 2026, saying Tinubu prolonged his condolences to the deceased spouse, Vivien, household, the Benue State Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association and the Idoma nation.
Onum, who died on the age of 73, was additionally remembered for his contributions to the event of Benue State and the authorized career.
The late jurist started his profession with the Ministry of Justice in Akure, Ondo State, throughout his National Youth Service Corps programme after graduating from the University of Lagos.
He later served as a Justice of the Peace in Vandeikya between 1980 and 1982 earlier than changing into a member of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1983.
He subsequently established Eko & Onum Chambers in Otukpo, the place he practised regulation earlier than serving as Solicitor-General, Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Benue State between 1988 and 1991.
Onum was appointed a choose of the Benue State High Court in 1991 and served for greater than 20 years earlier than changing into Chief Judge.
He made historical past as the primary individual from the Idoma ethnic group to occupy the place for the reason that creation of Benue State in 1976.
Reacting to his death, Tinubu mentioned, “The passing of Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum is a profound loss to Benue State and our nation.”
The President described the late judicial officer as a man who devoted his life to justice and public service, noting that his rise to the place of Chief Judge mirrored his competence, expertise and dedication to the authorized career.
He added, “His life reminds us that the true legacy of service is not simply the positions we occupy but the institutions we strengthen, the opportunities we create and the lives we positively touch.”
Tinubu, on behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, prolonged his condolences to the bereaved household, the judiciary and the individuals of Benue State.
He prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul and power for his household, colleagues and family members to bear the loss.
