From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello Over the Weekend described, Justice of the Appeal Court, Justice Tom Yakubu as a fair and astute jurist with a reputation for honour, integrity, hardworking and modesty.
Governor Yahaya Bello who made this remarks in his tribute during the Valedictory session at the High Court of Justice Headquarters in Lokoja described him as an illustrious son of Kogi State who distinguished himself in the legal profession in various capacities he had served.
“He was a man of deep learning and extraordinary insight who demonstrated humanness and high principles in the performance of his duties.”
He contributed greatly to the development of the Law and to the administration of justice in Nigeria. The Honorable Justice Tom Shaibu Yakubu was without doubt a devout Christian gentleman. ”
As co-founder of the Christian Law Students Fellowship of Nigeria (CLASFON) at the Nigerian Law school Lagos in 1979, Governor Bello said Late Justice Yakubu was instrumental to the salvation and spiritual growth of generations of law students and lawyers who have been impacted by the fellowship over the last few decades.
“We are however, glad that he left behind a legacy that will be long treasured by all who knew and loved him. On behalf of the good people of Kogi State and myself, I offer heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, extended family, community and friends as well as colleagues at the Court of Appeal”.
The Special Court Session which was presided by the Kogi State Chief Judge, Justice Nasiru Ajanah was part of the activities put in place to pay last respect for the departed legal ICON.
The remains of the late Justice was formally released to his family by the State Chief Judge, Nasiru Ajanah for burial at the country home of the deceased, Enjema in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi state.
In his remarks, the Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Nasiru Ajani, SAN commended the governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello for standing with the Judiciary even in mourning period.
Justice Ajana commended Governor Bello for the provision of funds for the burial of Late Justice Tom Yakubu and the rehabilitation of Enjema road including provision of security to ease movement of mourners to and fro of the deceased hometown.
Until his transition to glory on the 24th December, 2019, he was Justice of the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division.
Late Justice Tom Yakubu was born June 12, 1953 in Enjema, Ankpa local government area of Kogi State.
