President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses sorrow over the passing of the previous Chief Judge of Benue State, Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum, describing him as an achieved jurist, public servant and neighborhood chief.
The President extends his heartfelt condolences to the late Justice Onum’s spouse, Vivien, and the complete household, the Benue State Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association, the Idoma nation, the individuals of Benue State, and all Nigerians mourning the eminent jurist who died at 73.
Justice Onum started his public service 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 subsequently served as a Magistrate in Vandeikya, Benue State, between 1980 and 1982, and as a member of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1983.
He later established himself in personal authorized follow by means of Eko & Onum Chambers in Otukpo, offering authorized companies and contributing to the event of the authorized occupation in his neighborhood.
Between 1988 and 1991, he served as Solicitor-General of Benue State, in addition to the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
In 1991, he turned a decide of the Benue State High Court. He served as a Judge for greater than twenty years, till he was appointed Chief Judge, turning into the primary particular person from the Idoma ethnic group to occupy the workplace because the creation of the state in 1976.
President Tinubu says:
“The passing of Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum is a profound loss to Benue State and our nation.
“Justice Onum lived a lifetime of distinction, service and dedication. He devoted a few years to administering justice. He rose by means of the ranks of the authorized occupation to change into Chief Judge of Benue State, an achievement that mirrored his skilled competence, expertise and dedication to public service.
“His life reminds us that the true legacy of service just isn’t merely the positions we occupy however the establishments we strengthen, the alternatives we create and the lives we positively contact.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and the individuals of Nigeria, I prolong my deepest condolences to his household, the Benue State Judiciary, the Idoma nation and all of the individuals of Benue State.
“May his reminiscence stay a supply of inspiration to the authorized occupation and to all who imagine in justice, schooling, neighborhood growth and repair to humanity.
“I pray that Almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 6, 2026
