The National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) has announced the passing away of one of its esteemed judges, Justice Edith Agbakoba.
Her death occurred on Monday morning in Abuja, FCT, which the NICN says has left the legal community and the nation at large in a state of shock and mourning.
A statement released on behalf of the deceased family by Dr. Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and other family member, Gozie, expressed their deep sorrow.
It reads: “It is with great sadness that the Agbakoba family on Unuasele quarters, Onitsha, announces the passing away of their wife, mother, and sister, Justice Edith Agbakoba, in the early hours of this morning, November 6, 2023.
“We thank the President of NICN where she served with distinction for the support of the court and seek prayers for the family.”
Justice Benedict Kanyip, President, NICN, has ordered all court offices to close at 10.00pm today as a mark of respect and mourning.
He also directed that all flags within the court premises fly at half-mast throughout this week in honour of the late jurist.
The late Justice Agbakoba was known for her distinguished service on the bench, contributing significantly to the legal profession in Nigeria.
The NICN says her demise leaves a void that will be felt throughout the Nigerian legal community as other family members, colleagues and friends join in paying their last respects to a dedicated and accomplished jurist whom they described as having left an indelible mark in the annals of the Nigerian law.
According to her biography on NICN, Hon. Justice Agbakoba attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1980 and obtained LLB in 1984. She was called to the Bar in 1985. She performed her (NYSC) in 1985/86 service year.
She obtained a Masters Degree in Public Administration and Law from California South University, USA in 2012.
She started her career as Counsel at the Legal Aid Office, Anambra State in 1986 and rose to the position of a Director, Civil Justice at the Legal Aid Council Headquarters, Abuja before her Judicial appointment at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria in 2013.
His Lordship is a member of many professional bodies like NBA, International Dispute Resolution Institute etc.
