President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to former Supreme Court Justice and former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Justice George Oguntade, as he celebrates his 85th birthday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu praised Oguntade’s remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s legal and diplomatic spheres. Tinubu described Oguntade’s life as one marked by “fearlessness and courage,” highlighting his profound impact on the judiciary and international diplomacy.
The President’s message read, “This milestone age is a testament to a life dedicated to service, from the judiciary to diplomacy. Lawyers will always remember your tenure at the Supreme Court for its landmark judgments that continue to shape Nigeria’s legal framework.”
Oguntade’s illustrious career spans decades, beginning humbly as a court clerk. He was appointed a Judge of the Lagos High Court in 1980 and later served as a Judge at the Court of Appeal from 1987 to 2004. In 2004, he rose to the prestigious position of Supreme Court Justice, where he made an indelible mark in constitutional and administrative law.
Tinubu specifically referenced Oguntade’s role in delivering a dissenting judgment in a landmark case involving the presidential election between General Muhammadu Buhari (ret.) and then-President Umaru Yar’Adua. Oguntade’s ruling called for a re-run of the election, a moment that resonated deeply within Nigeria’s legal system.
In addition to his judicial legacy, Oguntade served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom from 2017 to 2020. His diplomatic efforts further strengthened the bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the UK, reflecting his unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential.
In recognition of his exemplary service, Oguntade was honored with the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by the Federal Government.
As Justice Oguntade celebrates his 85th birthday, President Tinubu expressed his best wishes, praying for continued health and divine grace in the years to come.
