It was an atmosphere of gloom on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) when Judges, lawyers and family members of the Late Hon. Justice Edith Nneka Neolita Agbakoba gathered to bid her farewell at at a special valedictory court session held in her honour.
Justice Agbakoba who until her death in the early hours of Monday 6 November 2023. was married to Gozie Agbakoba who represented Onitsha North / Onitsha South at the House of Representatives from 2003-2007. He is the elder brother of rights advocate crusader, Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN.
At the special session on Wednesday presided by Hon. Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip, President of the NICN, His Lordship commenced his address by quoting Robert Greene, emphasizing the profound connection between life and death. He acknowledged the collective mourning that has enveloped the legal community since Justice Agbakoba’s untimely departure and urged everyone present to embrace the reality of mortality as a means to appreciate the fullness of life.
Making reference to the book Ecclesiastes in the Holy Bible, Justice Kanyip stressed the inevitability of death and the brevity of life. He cited biblical passages to underscore the cyclical nature of existence, acknowledging the mysterious journey from birth to death and the ultimate return of the spirit to God.
The NICN President also took a moment to reflect on the life and academic pursuits of the departed Hon. Justice E. N. N. Agbakoba. Born on 21 May 1963 in London, she demonstrated academic excellence and intellectual sagacity throughout her educational journey. Her legal career, from the Nigerian Law School to her esteemed position as a judge, was marked by discipline and commitment to justice.
Justice Kanyip highlighted Justice Agbakoba’s distinguished legal practice at the Legal Aid Council, where she ascended to the positions of Zonal Director and Director, leaving an indelible mark of order and organization. Her appointment as a judge of the National Industrial Court in 2013 showcased her humility, impeccable character, and dedication to the principles of justice.
Kanyib described Justice Agbakoba as an honorable woman dedicated to the effective dispensation of justice, hallmarked by clarity, diligence and integrity. He noted that she would be remembered for her immense contributions to developing labor law jurisprudence in Nigeria.
His speech included touching tributes from the President of the Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice M.B. Dongban-Mensem, and the National Judicial Council. Both praised Justice Agbakoba’s hard work, intelligence, and passion for justice.
Justice Agbakoba’s religious and social life were also celebrated. A devout Christian, she was known for her kindness and dedication to justice, embodying the injunction to seek justice and defend the oppressed. Her positive impact on the lives of those around her, coupled with her warm and engaging demeanor, left lasting impressions.
Justice Kanyip expressed appreciation to the bar, bench and all well-wishers who graced the valedictory session to pay their last respects. He also thanked the Catholic priests who provided spiritual support. Conveying his condolences, Justice Kanyip prayed for God to grant the late jurist eternal rest.
Born in London to the family of Edward Chike Ekpechi and Anthonia Chike Ekpechi, of Onitsha North LGA in Anambra State, Hon. Justice Agbakoba attended Notre Dame High School, London from 1974 to 1977 and Girls High School, Awkunanaw, Enugu from 1977 to 1980 and obtained her West African School Certificate (WASC).
She was said to have died of a cancer related health challenge.
Most part of this story was culled from The Nigeria Lawyer
