The Delta State judiciary is in mourning following the passing of Hon. Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze, the immediate past President of the Customary Court of Appeal. She reportedly died in Abuja after a brief illness, just two years after retiring from active service.
Justice Elumeze, who was believed to be in her 60s, passed away at a hospital in the nation’s capital where she had been receiving medical care, according to reliable sources within the Delta State judiciary who confirmed the sad news on Wednesday.
She had a distinguished career in the judiciary and was first appointed as Acting President of the Customary Court of Appeal in November 2020 by former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, following the retirement of Justice Stella Ogene. She was officially sworn in as substantive President in June 2021.
Throughout her tenure, Justice Elumeze was widely respected for her impactful reforms, her commitment to timely justice delivery, and her strong focus on staff welfare. Her leadership left a lasting mark on the judicial system in Delta State.
When our correspondent visited the Customary Court of Appeal Headquarters on High Court Road, Asaba, on Wednesday, a somber mood filled the air. Staff and lawyers quietly exchanged words about the passing of the respected jurist.
Several judiciary staff, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, described Justice Elumeze as a compassionate, dedicated, and hardworking leader. They said her death is a significant loss to the Delta State judiciary.
“She was like a mother to many of us,” one staff member shared. “She led with fairness and empathy. Her death is truly heartbreaking.”
Details about the funeral arrangements are expected to be released soon by the family and the Delta State Judiciary.
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