President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses sorrow over the passing of the previous Chief Judge of Benue State, Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum, describing him as an achieved jurist, public servant and group chief.
The President extends his heartfelt condolences to the late Justice Onum’s spouse, Vivien, and the whole household, the Benue State Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association, the Idoma nation, the individuals of Benue State, and all Nigerians mourning the eminent jurist who died at 73.
Justice Onum started his public service profession with the Ministry of Justice in Akure, Ondo State, throughout his National Youth Service Corps programme after graduating from the University of Lagos. He subsequently served as a Magistrate in Vandeikya, Benue State, between 1980 and 1982, and as a member of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1983.
He later established himself in personal authorized follow by Eko & Onum Chambers in Otukpo, offering authorized providers and contributing to the event of the authorized career in his group.
Between 1988 and 1991, he served as Solicitor-General of Benue State, in addition to the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
In 1991, he grew to become a decide of the Benue State High Court. He served as a Judge for greater than 20 years, till he was appointed Chief Judge, turning into the primary particular person from the Idoma ethnic group to occupy the workplace for the reason that creation of the state in 1976.
President Tinubu says:
“The passing of Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum is a profound loss to Benue State and our nation.
“Justice Onum lived a lifetime of distinction, service and dedication. He devoted a few years to administering justice. He rose by the ranks of the authorized career to change into Chief Judge of Benue State, an achievement that mirrored his skilled competence, expertise and dedication to public service.
“His life reminds us that the true legacy of service isn’t merely the positions we occupy however the establishments we strengthen, the alternatives we create and the lives we positively contact.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and the individuals of Nigeria, I lengthen my deepest condolences to his household, the Benue State Judiciary, the Idoma nation and all of the individuals of Benue State.
“May his reminiscence stay a supply of inspiration to the authorized career and to all who consider in justice, training, group improvement and repair to humanity.
“I pray that Almighty God will grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
November 6, 2026
