By Lillian Okenwa
After 40 years in the legal practice, of which 21 was spent on the bench, Hon. Justice Afamefuna Anthony Nwobodo bowed out of Enugu State judiciary on 3 February 2023.
Nwobodo who honed his legal skills in the law firm of Bola Ajibola & Co. at Igbosere Road, Lagos, is a recipient of several awards including Judge of the Year for three consecutive years (2008, 2009, and 2010) from the Nigerian Bar Association, Enugu branch. Nicknamed ‘9’Oclock Judge’ by staff members and lawyers at Enugu Ezike High Court, Nwobodo also described as one who brought integrity, dignity, and courage to the bench tells the story of great men who inspired him to attain great heights.
“I have been blessed and opportune to have been mentored and taught by so many great men. My meeting with Barrister Godfrey Ubaka Agbakoba in 1968, first sowed the seed of interest in becoming a lawyer. The way he comported himself caught my attention and admiration. He was later elevated to the High Court Bench of East Central State. I remain grateful for the path he showed me.
“When I expressed my interest to study law, my father introduced me to his childhood friend, Dr. Augustine Nnamani who took me under his wing. I recall vividly, my very first visit to a courtroom, while still in secondary school. He took me to the Enugu High Court to observe Court Proceedings. I was enthralled. Dr. Augustine Nnamani later became a renowned Justice of the Supreme Court. Honourable Justice Nnamani did so much to mentor and encourage me, and his words of advice spurred me on the right path in my legal and judicial career. He continued to teach and mentor me until his sudden and untimely death in 1990. May his generous soul continue to rest in peace, Amen.
“I am also grateful to Hon. Justice Alfred Obi – Okoye the former Chief Judge of Plateau State. He was there for me guiding and encouraging me all through my years at the University of Jos. I am grateful to you.
“My deep gratitude also goes to His Excellency, Judge Bola Ajibola for the opportunity to practice in his Chambers. The experience I got while working in his chambers and the cases I was exposed to helped shape my legal mind a great deal. Your Excellency, I thank you for your kindness toward me throughout my time with you. I am indeed grateful.
“I cannot forget Mr. Namseh Eno, my senior friend and teacher at Bola Ajibola & Co. who was always ready to listen and guide me. He taught me so much about legal practice during our stay at Bola Ajibola & Co. Mr. Eno always excelled in whatever he did. He excelled in legal practice and the games of hockey and cricket. He was the only man who has captained two national teams in Nigeria, the National Hockey, and the National Cricket teams. I cherish the memories of being a pupil under your tutelage.
“With a deep sense of gratitude for the sacrifice, my parents Deacon Fidelis and Deaconess Rosemary Nwobodo made for me to get a good education, particularly a legal education. I thank them for inculcating in me the fear of God and a sense of worth above material possessions…”
Justice Nwobodo, a fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb) and Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators (ICMC) said he will now do a lot of reading from the many books he acquired over the years and explore law from the side of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
