Alex Enumah in Abuja
The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Ibrahim Muhammad, at the weekend, led 18 justices and senior officials of the Supreme Court on a condolence visit to the family of the late Justice Sylvester Ngwuta, who died on March 7, 2021.
A statement yesterday by the CJN’s media aide, Mr. Ahuraka Isah, said the delegation was received by Justice Ngwuta’s cousin, Nwali Ngwuta; his brother, Stephen Ngwuta; and his daughter, Chidera Ngwuta.
The CJN described the late jurist as a complete gentleman who won’t hurt anyone.
“He was highly dedicated to his duty and would definitely be missed by many people. May His Lordship’s soul rest in peace and may God Almighty continue to protect and provide for the family he left behind,” the CJN said.
Responding on behalf of the family, Nwali thanked the CJN and the Supreme Court for their support, saying the apex court has been taking care of the deceased from the day he fell sick until his demise.
“Up to date, the court has been supportive of the family as regards arrangements leading to the burial of the deceased. We pray for the delegation, just as we will forever be grateful for the kindness and support extended by the court,’’ he said.
The CJN signed the condolence register on behalf of himself and his colleagues.
Ngwuta, who was due to retire from the Supreme Court on attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years on March 30, 2021, died on March 7.
His body has been deposited at the National Hospital mortuary pending the conclusion of arrangements for his burial.
