Ondo govt, legal community celebrate late Justice Adegbenro’s legacy
By Boye Oyeyemi
The Ondo State Government, members of the judiciary and the legal profession on Thursday paid glowing tributes to late retired Justice Ajibade Isaiah Adegbenro, describing him as a fearless jurist whose commitment to justice, integrity and mentorship left a lasting impact on the state’s legal system.
The tributes were delivered during a special court session held in his honour, where Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), joined judges, lawyers and family members in celebrating the late judge’s distinguished career in public service and the judiciary.
Ajulo said Justice Adegbenro’s life exemplified honesty, humility and unwavering dedication to the rule of law, adding that his contributions to the administration of justice would remain a reference point for generations of legal practitioners.
“Justice Adegbenro lived a life defined by integrity and selfless service. Though he is gone, the values he upheld and the institutions he strengthened will continue to inspire the legal profession for many years,” the attorney-general said.
He recalled that before his elevation to the High Court Bench in 2002, the late jurist served with distinction as Director of Public Prosecutions and later as Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, where he earned respect for his professionalism, diligence and exceptional leadership.
Ajulo also praised the late judge’s passion for mentoring young lawyers, recounting how he once personally funded the participation of junior legal officers at the Nigerian Bar Association Annual Conference, many of whom later rose to become senior judicial officers and top government lawyers.
“He believed that the law should always serve the cause of justice and not become an obstacle to it. His greatest legacy is not only in his judicial pronouncements but also in the lawyers and judges he nurtured throughout his lifetime,” Ajulo added.
The attorney-general further noted that Justice Adegbenro played a key role in advancing the welfare of government lawyers through his support for initiatives that later evolved into the Law Officers Association of Nigeria, describing him as an enduring symbol of excellence whose legacy would continue to shape the nation’s justice sector.
