President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki have offered their condolences in memory of the late constitutional lawyer, Professor Ben Nwabueze.
The family of the former Minister of Education confirmed his passing. Nwabueze, who was originally from Atani in the Ogbaru local government area of Anambra State, is reported to have passed away at the age of 92 on Sunday.
President Tinubu, in a statement released on Monday by his spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, expressed that the demise of the exceptional lawyer Nwabueze is a significant loss to the nation of Nigeria.
“Prof. B.O. Nwabueze’s contribution to the precedents and principles of the nation’s constitution is notable. His involvement in the drafting of the 1979 constitution is a legacy that stands him out as well as his outstanding contributions to the legal profession at large,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu urged his family, the residents of Anambra State, and all Nigerians to find comfort in the valuable legacy that the late Prof Nwabueze has left behind, and he prayed for God Almighty to grant his soul eternal rest.
Atiku expressed that the news of Nwabueze’s passing was deeply surprising, as he shared a strong and cherished connection with the late Professor.
“He was a fine scholar who carried himself with excellence and had an avuncular mien,” the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election stated.
“Notably, he served as the Chairman of the Igbo Leaders of Thought, a role that further underscored his dedication and commitment to his people and the nation at large.”
He mentioned that thanks to his remarkable intellectual abilities, Professor Nwabueze made significant contributions to the advancement of constitutional principles, not only within Nigeria but on a global scale.
Atiku expressed a strong sense of pride in considering the late Professor Ben Nwabueze as a kindred spirit.
“On behalf of my family and team, I express my condolences and adulations to his immediate family, the Ndi Igbo people, and also the people and government of Anambra State for the loss of their patriarch and for gifting the country with such a resourceful mind,” he said.
“It is my prayer that his adorable soul rests in eternal peace.”
Saraki, the former governor of Kwara State, described Professor Nwabueze as a lifelong advocate for justice and democracy.
He highlighted that the late lawyer fearlessly championed the rule of law and remained a steadfast critic of corruption. Saraki also emphasized that Professor Nwabueze’s writings had a profound influence on the evolution of Nigerian constitutional law.
“Today, my family and I join the entire nation in mourning Professor Nwabueze’s passing. His legacy will continue to inspire us all to work for a more just and equitable society,” Saraki said.
“I extend my deepest condolences to the family he left behind, the legal community, and to the Igbo nation.”