Her work as the pioneer judge of the Federal Capital Territory was highly characterised by courage, diligence, humility and excellence. Amongst her colleagues, she was seen and celebrated as a worthy judge who was bold, courageous and incorruptible, serving humanity with her all. Her strength of character was contagious as she had a positive influence on her colleagues, both at the Bar and at the Bench; many were influenced by her to strive to keep the sanctity of the profession.
Justice Onejeme, who broke barriers in the legal profession died on 27 April, 2017, she was 86 years at the time of her death. The Chief Judge of FCT, Justice Ishaq Bello, during the valedictory court session held in her honour, said of her: “she was very diligent, that is why with every sense of humility; we shall name one of the courts after her. By so doing, we hope that generations to come will know that indeed an amazon once lived and worked here”. He further indicated that the FCT jurisdiction bears eloquent testimonies of His Lordship’s contributions and noted that her work cannot be forgotten in a hurry.
Justice Onejeme, by accomplishing the above feats, made herself a shining light and a credible example of women who shatter the glass ceiling to excel in professions that were heretofore dominated by men.
Yakubu Chonoko (YC) Maikyau
Chairman, NBA Welfare Committee
