By Ayomide Otitoju
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), are among top dignitaries expected to attend the official launch of a new book chronicling the judicial career of former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola.
The book, titled “Honourable Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, CJN, GCON: Through the Cases,” is co-authored by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Charles Mekwunye, and Ayo Olanrewaju, who serves as Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Chairman of the Editorial Board of the Nigerian Weekly Law Reports (NWLR).
Speaking ahead of the launch scheduled for May 8 in Abuja, Dr Mekwunye said the publication offers a comprehensive analysis of Justice Ariwoola’s service in Nigeria’s appellate courts, with a focus on his significant contributions to the evolution of Nigerian jurisprudence.
“The book critically examines Justice Ariwoola’s judgments, offering insight into his legal philosophy and impact,” Mekwunye stated. “One of the most remarkable aspects of his career is that he never delivered a dissenting judgment. In cases where he initially held a minority view, the majority of the panel eventually aligned with his position, making it the adopted judgment.”
Describing Justice Ariwoola as a courageous and principled jurist, Mekwunye likened him to renowned international legal minds, noting that while he was not a radical reformist like Lord Denning nor an ultra-conservative like Lord Viscount Simmonds, he remained a balanced, conservative judge with a deep commitment to legal precedent.
He added that the book serves not only as a tribute but also as an academic resource, especially for judges, legal scholars, and aspiring jurists. It provides detailed discussions of several landmark rulings delivered by the former CJN.
“Justice Ariwoola is a fearless, incorruptible, and strong-willed jurist whose judicial pronouncements and administrative leadership have enriched Nigeria’s legal system. His over 40 years of experience in law make him a reservoir of legal knowledge,” Mekwunye said.
The Abuja book launch is expected to attract a high-profile audience from Nigeria’s legal community, including senior judicial officers, the leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and other key stakeholders.
