ASABA/Nigeria: The Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Hon. Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze, the immediate past President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Delta State, describing her as a rare gem and a shining light in the state’s judiciary.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Nkem Nwaeke, the Speaker said he received the news of the retired jurist’s death with great shock and a heavy heart, noting that her demise has left a huge void in the judicial community.
“On behalf of the Delta State House of Assembly, I wish to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late Hon. Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze,” Guwor stated. “Justice Elumeze was a distinguished jurist, an epitome of integrity, and a trailblazer who served the judiciary and our dear state with unwavering dedication, brilliance, and courage.”
The Speaker praised the late Justice Elumeze for her immense contributions to the development of customary jurisprudence in Delta State, describing her as a role model who inspired many women in the legal profession through her intellect, resilience, and exemplary leadership.
According to Guwor, her tenure as President of the Customary Court of Appeal was marked by professionalism, reforms, and an unrelenting pursuit of justice for all. He added that her legacy of service and uprightness will continue to inspire generations within and beyond the legal community.
While praying for the repose of her soul, the Speaker urged the family to take solace in the remarkable life she lived and the enduring impact she made on the state’s judicial system.
“I pray that God grants her immediate family the fortitude to bear this monumental loss,” Guwor said. “May they find comfort in the indelible impact she made and the noble values she upheld.”
