Tinubu mourns former Benue chief judge

Late Justice Adam Onum, former Chief Judge of Benue State. CREDIT: State House

President Bola Tinubu has mourned a former Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Adam Onum, who died at the age of 73.

Tinubu described the late jurist as an accomplished legal practitioner, public servant and community leader who devoted his life to the administration of justice and public service.

Onum reportedly died on Thursday, November 5, 2026 after a protracted illness.

The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu extended his condolences to Onum’s wife, Vivien, his family, the Benue State Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar Association, the Idoma nation and the people of Benue State.

He said, “The passing of Hon. Justice Adam Ochume Onum is a profound loss to Benue State and our nation.

“Justice Onum lived a life of distinction, service and dedication. He devoted many years to administering justice. He rose through the ranks of the legal profession to become Chief Judge of Benue State, an achievement that reflected his professional competence, experience and commitment to public service.”

The President said the late jurist’s legacy went beyond the positions he held, noting that his contributions to strengthening institutions and serving communities would remain an inspiration.

“His life reminds us that the true legacy of service is not simply the positions we occupy but the institutions we strengthen, the opportunities we create and the lives we positively touch,” he added.

Onum began his public service career with the Ministry of Justice in Akure, Ondo State, during his National Youth Service Corps programme after graduating from the University of Lagos.

He subsequently served as a magistrate in Vandeikya, Benue State, between 1980 and 1982, before becoming a member of the Benue State House of Assembly in 1983.

He later established Eko & Onum Chambers in Otukpo, where he provided legal services and contributed to the development of the legal profession in his community.

Between 1988 and 1991, he served as Solicitor-General of Benue State, as well as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

In 1991, he was appointed a judge of the Benue State High Court, where he served for more than two decades before becoming Chief Judge.

The statement noted that Onum was the first person from the Idoma ethnic group to occupy the office since Benue State was created in 1976.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the late jurist’s soul and strength for his family and loved ones to bear the loss.

He also expressed hope that Onum’s memory would continue to inspire members of the legal profession and others committed to justice, education, community development and service to humanity.