Prof Okonkwo was still lecturing while I was in school in Awka. I later got to know that my call mate and contemporary was his student. And he always spoke highly of him.
His erudition and intellect preceded him. In fact, made him seem older than he was. Like when you read about Lord Denning only to later find out he was just 40 years ago!
About six years ago, I had the privilege of working closely, for two years plus, with Prof Okonkwo. That was the first time I met the legend.
The first day he walked into our meeting place and asked for me by name and I stood up to answer, it was surreal.
I could not believe it was Prof Okonkwo! Yes, I had spoken with him on phone before then. Yes, I was expecting him, yet it was an experience.
It was like the first time I realised that Jerusalem in the Bible was actually a place on earth. That people were actually living in Jerusalem.
He did not disappoint. His intelligence, his humility, his dexterity at reducing seemingly complex parts to simple elements and logical sequence was remarkable. For instance, while we were struggling to unpack a principle of law or statutory provision, Prof would ask one question which suddenly clears the cobwebs.
The two years working with him was remarkable. It left an indelible mark. It gave me new eyes with which to look at the law.
May his soul and souls of the faithful departed rest in perfect peace Amen.
Dr. Bethel Uzoma IHUGBA,
National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies, National Assembly Abuja.
