President Bola Tinubu has mourned the passing of Justice Ibitola Adebisi Sotuminu, a former Chief Judge of Lagos State, who died at the age of 86.
In a statement released on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late jurist.
He also commiserated with the Body of Benchers, the Nigerian Bar Association, the National Council of Women’s Societies, and the International Federation of Women Lawyers.
Describing Justice Sotuminu as a woman of integrity, honour, and diligence, Tinubu reflected on their time working together during his tenure as Governor of Lagos State.
He credited her with playing a vital role in implementing key judicial reforms.
Justice Sotuminu’s legal career spanned over four decades.
She began as a magistrate in 1969 and rose to the position of Chief Magistrate of Lagos State.
In 1984, she broke new ground by becoming the first woman appointed Chief Registrar of the Lagos State High Court.
She was elevated to the High Court bench in 1986 and later served as Chief Judge of Lagos State from 2001 to 2004.
Her tenure as Chief Judge was marked by significant reforms, including the modernization of court infrastructure, the digitization of judicial processes, and efforts to expedite justice delivery—initiatives that laid the groundwork for Lagos State’s current reputation as a leader in legal innovation.
As her final burial rites commenced on Wednesday, President Tinubu offered prayers for the peaceful repose of her soul and for comfort to those she left behind.