Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed profound grief and heartfelt sorrow following the passing of Hon. Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze, the immediate past President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal. The revered jurist, whose death was reported on Tuesday in Abuja after a brief illness, left an indelible mark on the state’s judicial landscape. Justice Elumeze’s demise comes two years after her retirement from the bench in April 2023, marking the end of a distinguished career dedicated to justice, fairness, and judicial reform.
In a poignant statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori described the late Justice Elumeze as an exemplary legal luminary whose commitment to the rule of law and judicial excellence profoundly shaped Delta State’s judiciary. The Governor highlighted her integrity, compassion, and transformative leadership, noting that her contributions elevated the standards of justice delivery in the state. “We have lost a woman of integrity, compassion, and a true reformer in the judiciary,” the Governor stated. “Justice Elumeze served the state with honour and dedication, particularly during her time as President of the Customary Court of Appeal. Her leadership ushered in critical reforms that enhanced the speed and efficiency in the dispensation of justice.”
Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze’s judicial career was marked by significant milestones and a steadfast commitment to upholding justice, particularly within the framework of customary law, which governs traditional and community-based legal matters in Delta State. Appointed as Acting President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal in November 2020 by then-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, following the retirement of her predecessor, Justice Stella Ogene, Elumeze demonstrated exceptional leadership from the outset. Her appointment as Acting President was a testament to her reputation as a jurist of impeccable character and deep legal acumen. In June 2021, her appointment was confirmed, and she was sworn in as the substantive President of the Customary Court of Appeal, a position she held until her retirement in April 2023.
During her tenure, Justice Elumeze spearheaded reforms that streamlined judicial processes, making the Customary Court of Appeal more accessible and efficient for the people of Delta State. Her leadership was instrumental in addressing longstanding challenges in the customary judicial system, including delays in case resolutions and procedural inefficiencies. Under her guidance, the court became a beacon of fairness, ensuring that disputes rooted in traditional and cultural practices were adjudicated with both sensitivity and adherence to legal principles. Her reforms not only strengthened the judiciary’s capacity to deliver justice but also reinforced public trust in the customary court system as a vital institution for resolving disputes in alignment with the state’s diverse cultural heritage.
Governor Oborevwori’s tribute underscored the late jurist’s remarkable legacy, emphasizing her role as a trailblazer in a field where compassion and firmness are equally essential. He noted that her contributions extended beyond the courtroom, as she inspired younger legal professionals and set a high standard for judicial conduct. Her dedication to justice was evident in her meticulous approach to cases, her ability to balance legal technicalities with the human elements of disputes, and her unwavering commitment to fairness. “Justice Elumeze’s life was a testament to the power of integrity and service,” the Governor remarked. “Her legacy will continue to inspire those who seek to uphold justice and equity in our society.”
The passing of Justice Elumeze has sent ripples of sorrow across Delta State, particularly within the legal community and among those who knew her personally. Her death is not only a loss to her immediate family but also to the judiciary and the people of Delta State, who benefited from her years of selfless service. Governor Oborevwori extended his deepest condolences to the Elumeze family, the Delta State judiciary, and the broader community, acknowledging the profound void left by her departure. In his statement, he prayed for the repose of her soul and for strength and solace for those she left behind, including her family, colleagues, and the countless individuals whose lives she touched through her work.
Justice Elumeze’s career was a shining example of what it means to serve with purpose and dedication. Born into a society where customary law plays a significant role in governance and dispute resolution, she rose to become a pivotal figure in ensuring that the legal system reflected both tradition and modernity. Her ability to navigate complex legal issues while remaining grounded in the cultural realities of Delta State made her a respected figure among her peers and the public alike.
As Delta State mourns the loss of this judicial icon, her contributions will remain etched in the annals of the state’s history. The reforms she championed and the principles she upheld will continue to guide the Customary Court of Appeal and inspire future generations of jurists. Her life serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of integrity, compassion, and commitment to public service.
Governor Oborevwori’s tribute is a call to celebrate Justice Elumeze’s life while reflecting on the values she stood for. Her passing is a moment for the state to recommit to the ideals of justice, fairness, and equity that she so tirelessly promoted. As the people of Delta State bid farewell to one of their most distinguished daughters, they do so with gratitude for her service and a renewed determination to honor her legacy by continuing to build a judicial system that serves all.
