Supreme Court Justice Chima Centus Nweze has passed on. He died on Sunday at the age of 64.
Festus Akande, the Director of Information at the Supreme Court, confirmed the news to NIGERIAN ANCHOR, whilst adding that and an official press statement will be released soon.
Justice Nweze gained prominence for his dissenting judgment in 2020, which declared Emeka Ihedioha of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the rightful winner of the 2019 Governorship election in Imo State.
This decision triggered extensive debates and divided opinions among legal experts and the public.
In another significant moment of his judicial career, Justice Nweze, in a three-against-two split decision, declared Ahmad Lawan, then Senate President, as the authentic candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Yobe North Senatorial District during the 25 February general election.
These rulings underscored the profound impact of his decisions on the political landscape.
Born on September 25, 1958, in Obollo, Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State, Justice Chima Centus Nweze had a long and distinguished career within the Nigerian legal system.
In 2014, former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration approved his appointment to the Supreme Court upon the recommendation of the National Judicial Council (NJC).
Justice Nweze’s demise leaves a significant void in the legal community.
He was renowned for his thoughtful and meticulous approach to cases, earning respect among peers and legal scholars alike.
As the nation mourns the loss of this accomplished jurist, his legacy of upholding justice and the rule of law will undoubtedly endure in Nigeria’s legal history.
