Olu onagoruwa 1936 2017

A great Nigerian! Olu Onagoruwa (1936-2017) was a Nigerian jurist and former Chief Justice of Nigeria. Here's a brief overview of his life and achievements:

Early Life and Education

Olu Onagoruwa was born on October 24, 1936, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. He received his early education at Abeokuta Grammar School and later attended the University of Ibadan, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree in 1962.

Career

Onagoruwa began his career as a lawyer in 1963, after being called to the Nigerian Bar. He worked as a legal officer in the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, before joining the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in 1965. He rose through the ranks to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1981.

Judicial Career

Onagoruwa's judicial career spanned over three decades. He was appointed a Judge of the High Court of Lagos State in 1982 and later became a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in 1992. He served as the Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 1997, during which period he played a key role in the country's transition to democracy.

Achievements and Legacy

Onagoruwa was known for his integrity, fairness, and commitment to the rule of law. During his tenure as Chief Justice, he played a crucial role in the country's transition from military rule to democracy. He was also a strong advocate for judicial independence and the separation of powers.

After retiring from the bench, Onagoruwa continued to contribute to the development of the Nigerian judiciary. He was a member of various committees and commissions, including the National Judicial Council and the Constitutional Conference.

Personal Life

Onagoruwa was married to his wife, Mrs. Funmi Onagoruwa, and they had children together. He was a devout Christian and a member of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

Death

Olu Onagoruwa passed away on November 28, 2017, at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy of service to Nigeria and the judiciary. His death was widely mourned by Nigerians and the legal community, who recognized his contributions to the country's development and the rule of law.