The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Dr. Musa Adamu Aliyu, SAN, has expressed profound sorrow and deep respect over the passing of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (JSC Retired), CON, and former Chairman of ICPC who passed away on Tuesday.
The tribute was contained in a statement he personality signed on Friday. Dr. Aliyu described Justice Ayoola’s demise as the end of an illustrious chapter in Nigeria’s judiciary and legal profession, praising his exceptional integrity, brilliant legal analysis, and steadfast commitment to justice.
He highlighted Justice Ayoola’s contributions to the fight against corruption during his tenure as ICPC Chairman from 2005 to 2010.
Dr. Aliyu also acknowledged Justice Ayoola’s international engagements, including his service as Chief Justice of the Gambia and his role at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, reflecting his dedication to upholding the rule of law and justice globally.
The ICPC Chairman celebrated Justice Ayoola’s life as a testament to the pursuit of justice, fairness, and societal betterment, inspiring generations of legal practitioners and public servants.
He noted that Justice Ayoola’s legacy will continue to guide and inspire efforts in the battle against corruption, providing hope for a more just and fair society.
Aliyu extended his heartfelt condolences to Justice Ayoola’s family, friends, and colleagues, praying for the Almighty to grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
The statement read in part: “is with profound sorrow and deep respect that the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) announces the passing of Hon. Justice Emmanuel Olayinka Ayoola (JSC Retired), CON, which occurred on Tuesday, 20th August 2024.
“On behalf of the Commission, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.
“Hon. Justice Ayoola’s demise marks the end of an illustrious chapter in the history of Nigeria’s judiciary and the broader legal profession.
“A jurist of international repute, his legal career spanned over five decades, encompassing private practice, and notable tenures on the Bench both in Nigeria and abroad.
“His exceptional integrity, brilliant legal analysis, incisive judgments, and steadfast commitment to justice distinguished him as a towering figure in the legal profession.
“During his service as the Chairman of the ICPC from 2005 to 2010, Justice Ayoola was unwavering in his commitment to the fight against corruption—a cause he championed with vigour and a profound sense of duty.
“His contributions to the Nigerian judiciary and his international engagements, including his service as Chief Justice of the Gambia and his role at the Special Court for Sierra Leone, reflect his dedication to upholding the rule of law and justice globally.
“Justice Ayoola’s exemplary life and work have left an indelible mark on the legal profession, inspiring generations of legal practitioners and public servants.
“As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary jurist, we also celebrate a life well-lived, one dedicated to the pursuit of justice, fairness, and the betterment of society.
“The ICPC and the entire nation have lost a venerable elder statesman. However, his legacy will continue to guide and inspire our ongoing efforts in the battle against corruption, providing hope for a more just and fair society.
“May the Almighty grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss”.
