Justice Ibitola Adebisi Sotuminu, a distinguished legal luminary and former Chief Judge of Lagos State, passed away at the age of 86, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, diligence, and groundbreaking judicial reforms. President Bola Tinubu, expressing profound sorrow at her passing, extended his heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and colleagues, as well as esteemed legal organizations such as the Body of Benchers, the Nigerian Bar Association, the National Council of Women’s Societies, and the International Federation of Women Lawyers. Her death marks the end of a remarkable career that spanned over four decades, significantly shaping the legal landscape of Lagos State and serving as a beacon of progress and innovation in the Nigerian judiciary.
Justice Sotuminu embarked on her legal journey as a magistrate in 1969, steadily ascending the ranks through sheer dedication and unwavering commitment to justice. She became the Chief Magistrate of Lagos State, demonstrating her exceptional leadership and judicial acumen. In a landmark achievement that shattered glass ceilings, she was appointed the first woman Chief Registrar of the Lagos State High Court in 1984, paving the way for future generations of female legal professionals. Her appointment as a High Court Judge in 1986 further solidified her position as a trailblazer in the legal field. The pinnacle of her career arrived in 2001 when she was appointed Chief Judge of Lagos State, a position she held until 2004.
Justice Sotuminu’s tenure as Chief Judge was marked by a series of transformative reforms that modernized the Lagos judiciary and cemented its status as a leading legal hub in Nigeria. Recognizing the critical need for enhanced infrastructure, she spearheaded the expansion and modernization of court facilities, creating a more conducive environment for the dispensation of justice. Furthermore, she embraced technological advancements by championing the digitization of judicial processes, a move that significantly improved efficiency and transparency within the system. Her commitment to expediting justice delivery led to innovative initiatives that streamlined court procedures, ensuring that cases were handled promptly and effectively.
President Tinubu, reflecting on his time as Governor of Lagos State, fondly recalled working alongside Justice Sotuminu and lauded her pivotal contributions to critical judicial reforms. He emphasized her unwavering integrity, profound sense of honor, and unwavering diligence, qualities that defined her career and earned her widespread respect and admiration within the legal community. Her legacy as a reformer and a champion of justice will continue to inspire generations of legal professionals to strive for excellence and uphold the highest ethical standards.
As final burial rites commenced, President Tinubu offered prayers for the repose of her soul and extended his heartfelt sympathies to her bereaved family and loved ones. He acknowledged the immense void left by her passing, but emphasized the enduring impact of her contributions to the Nigerian judiciary. Justice Sotuminu’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to shape the legal landscape of Lagos State and serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication to justice, equality, and progress.
Her life and career serve as a powerful testament to the transformative power of dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. From her humble beginnings as a magistrate to her distinguished tenure as Chief Judge, Justice Sotuminu consistently broke barriers and challenged conventions, leaving an indelible mark on the Nigerian judiciary. Her unwavering commitment to justice, coupled with her innovative reforms, has cemented her legacy as a true legal pioneer and a role model for aspiring legal professionals across the nation. Her memory will continue to inspire future generations to strive for excellence, uphold the highest ethical standards, and work tirelessly to ensure equal access to justice for all.
