Days after the passing of former Benue State Chief Judge, Justice Adam Ochume Onum, on Thursday, November 5, 2026, the state government has paid glowing tributes to his decades of public service. Governor Hyacinth Alia, speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, on Friday, described the death as a monumental loss to both the state and the wider Nigerian judiciary.
What notable milestones defined Justice Onum's career?
Justice Onum etched his name in the annals of history in December 2017 by breaking a four-decade barrier to become the inaugural Chief Judge of Idoma extraction since the creation of Benue State in 1976. Throughout his tenure on the bench, he was widely recognized for his steadfast commitment to integrity, judicial courage, and the fair administration of the law.
"Justice Onum was a distinguished legal practitioner and judicial officer whose contributions to the development of the state's legal and judicial institutions will remain part of Benue's history," Governor Alia remarked while highlighting the jurist's profound impact.
Beyond his primary responsibilities on the bench, the late jurist lent his expertise to various state commissions and served meritoriously on national Election Petition Tribunals, further showcasing his unwavering dedication to national development.
How has the government responded to his passing?
In the wake of the loss, the state government extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, the Idoma community, the Benue State Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association, and all residents of the state. Governor Alia offered prayers for divine fortitude to comfort the grieving relatives and prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed legal luminary, emphasizing that his enduring legacy of service will continue to inspire future generations.