This is an interesting, revealing and invaluable book in memory of late Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji -Abadua. It is about her life , the Law, Equity & Justice.
The author, the Imo State Hon. Attorney General Emeritus and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria Chukwuma -Machukwu Ume wrote it in memory of this distinguished jurist late Presiding Justice of Court of Appeal Benin Division Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji -Abadua.
The author stated that within the solemn corridors of justice, the memory of late Hon. Justice Theresa Orji -Abadua lingers with profound sense of reverence.
The 308 pages book captured the significant contribution of unique legal thoughts of His Lordship. Hon Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji-Abadua who transcended the role of a mere adjudicator.
She distinguished herself as a jurist, exemplifying a profound level of influence in the sane re-ordering of the society. His noble Lordship stood as a pillar of of integrity, wisdom and empathy.
Her commitment to justice shone through in each ruling she delivered and every proceeding. Through the pages , you will be taken on a journey to rediscover the ideals she upheld, the landmark cases that shaped her career and the wisdom they imparted
In this Book she is celebrated in four distinct Parts.
The Part 1.”Personality” high light her formative years, how the chronic communal land dispute and event of the Nigeria Civil War inspired her to become a lawyer, educational journey and highlights how she adeptly managed to weave her responsibilities as a wife, mother with her demanding legal profession, showcasing her ability to excel in all the roles simultaneously.
The Part 2, “A Pace – Setter” outlines the initial steps in her legal career, highlighting her pioneering effort as the first female practitioner to establish a law firm in Onitsha, Anambra State.Its part traces her journey to elevation and serving as a judge at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory,.Abuja, to her elevation as a.presiding Justice of the Court of Appeal,Benin Judicial Division, a tenure that concluded with her demise.
The core focus of part 3 is ” the synopsis of His Lordship’s Decision & the Cerebral Quotes” seeks to connect her philosophical beliefs with her array of judgments while serving on the Bench: High Court and Court of Appeal, publication and highlights her dissenting opinions in court decisions.
In Chapter 14 of the part 3 is ” The Isolation & the Myths” explores the roles of the Hon. Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji-Abadua within the community context which negates the the principle of judicial exclusivity in a communal society.
Her Lordship’s dedication to the legal profession was marked by an unwavering commitment to diligence equity and neutrality which garnered her enormous respect from her peers, legal practitioners and those involved in judicial matters.
Her role as a judge however encompassed more than adjudication . It also involved proactive engagement with the community, tackling societal challenges and enhancing the collective well being .It is therefore right to say that the Hood doesn’t make the Monk . Isolation has never been a panacea to corruption in the Bench.
In conclusion, Part 4.”Tribute to Hon. Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji-Abadua PJCA,” presents a collection of tributes and remarks about the Hon. Justice Theresa Ngolika Orji-Abadua PJCA.
This chapter which is in subsections include heartfelt expressions of grief and respect from family members, distinguished jurists , Senior Advocate of Nigeria, legal practitioners, Statesmen devoted staff and other well meaning personalities across the Federal Republic of Nigeria, all sharing their profound respect for which her decisions in the Bench stands and their jolt over the sudden death of Law, Equity and Justice Amazon.