Lagos, Nigeria – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Justice Emmanuel Ayoola, the former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), who died at the age of 90 on Tuesday. In a heartfelt condolence letter addressed to the Ayoola family, Obasanjo praised the late jurist’s life as one marked by honor, dignity, and unwavering service to the nation.
Obasanjo, who appointed Ayoola as the head of the ICPC during his administration, described the news of Ayoola’s death as a “jarring shock” that reached him while he was in Congo Brazzaville. He reflected on Ayoola’s exemplary career in public service, noting that the former ICPC chairman exhibited outstanding leadership qualities, wisdom, and a wealth of experience throughout his life.
“Although I am deeply saddened to hear of his transition, I am comforted by the knowledge that he lived a full, productive, and useful life of service and devotion to his community, his state, and the nation as well as to humanity,” Obasanjo stated. “In a country like ours, which is abundantly endowed with stars and frontiersmen, Justice Ayoola was one genuine patriot who radiated dominantly within our national space and beyond.”
Justice Ayoola, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most eminent jurists, had a distinguished career that spanned several decades and continents. His roles included Judge of the High Court of Western Nigeria, Chief Justice of the Gambia, President of the Court of Appeals of Seychelles, and Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. In each of these positions, he earned the respect and confidence of both Nigerians and the international community through his hard work, professional excellence, and commitment to duty.
Obasanjo also highlighted Ayoola’s contributions as Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria and later as the head of the ICPC, where he was instrumental in the fight against corruption. “In all of these positions, Justice Ayoola earned the respect and confidence of Nigerians and non-Nigerians by dint of hard work, professional excellence, devotion to duty, and resourcefulness,” Obasanjo said.
The former president emphasized that Ayoola’s legacy would be remembered as one of integrity and dedication to the nation. “His name will live forever in the minds and hearts of those who experienced his warmth, generosity, and guidance,” Obasanjo concluded.
President Bola Tinubu, along with other prominent Nigerians, has joined in mourning the passing of Justice Ayoola, whose life and career serve as a beacon of honor and service in the nation’s history.
