The Government and people of Rivers State on Thursday night held a night of tributes for the departed Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Late Hon Emmanuel Aguma (SAN), who served the state diligently.
Senior lawyers, family members, friends, associates, State House of Assembly, State Judiciary and the Rivers State Executive Council all highlighted the qualities that made Late Aguma, an outstanding lawyer and Attorney-General.
Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Ikuinyi-Owaji Ibani praised the Late Attorney-General of Rivers State for his legal support to the House of Assembly through invaluable advice on issues of law.
Representative of the Body of Attorneys General and Akwa Ibom State Attorney General, Uwemedimo Nwoko said that at the National Level, Late Emmanuel Aguma stood for justice and defended the rights of the Niger Delta.
Speaking on behalf of the Rivers State Judiciary, Justice Adolphus Enebeli said that Aguma was a sound lawyer who argued his cases with conviction and knowledge.
He added that behind the tough look of Late Aguma was a lovely heart that had compassion for everyone.
Solicitor General of Rivers State, Mrs Florence Fiberesima said Late Aguma was committed to the growth of the Ministry of Justice to his dying days. She said that the welfare of lawyers remained uppermost on his heart till he passed on.
Former President of the Nigeria Bar Association, Chief Onueze Okocha (SAN) extolled the qualities of the Late Aguma, describing him as a thoroughbred professional who served the state diligently. He said Aguma would be missed by the state.
Mr Isaac Kamalu who spoke on behalf of the Rivers State Executive Council, stated that the Late Attorney-General of Rivers State made very remarkable contributions to the development of the state. He said his tenure remains a golden era in the annals of the state.
Chairman of the Nigeria Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch, Mr Sylvester Adaka said that Late Aguma in the last three years elevated law practice in the state by facilitating the construction of an NBA House, Federal High Court Complex, National Industrial Court and remodelling of the Court of Appeal.
Speaker after speaker described the Late Attorney-General of Rivers State as a man who stood for justice, fairness and the welfare of others.
The Night of Tributes which was attended by the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, his wife, Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, leaders of Rivers State and traditional rulers was laced with solemn songs and prayers.
A special documentary on the life and times of Aguma featured at the event.
