Attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has described the retired justice of the Supreme Court, Amina Augie, as an exemplary jurist, who did not show favouritism in dispensing her duty.
He said Augie’s life of service in the judiciary was indeed worthy of enormous recognition and celebration.
Fagbemi stated these at the presentation and unveiling of the book titled, “Wisdom and Integrity: The Legacy of Honourable Justice Amina Adamu Augie JSC, CON Through her Judgements.”
He was represented at the event held in Lagos by a director in the office of the AGF, Mr Adebola Odugbesan.
In a statement issued yesterday by the special adviser on communication and publicity, Office of the AGF and Minister of Justice, Kamarudeen Ogundele, Fagbemi said, “It is only trite that her pristine legacy of dauntless contribution to the development of our legal jurisprudence be immortalised in print. Hence, the unveiling and launch of this book, is most appropriate.
“Honourable Justice Amina Augie is an asset to our legal community, given her well rounded and robust legal background.”
Fagbemi said Augie’s notable pronouncements both at the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court had formed the core of her indubitable reputation.
He cited the case of Silfax (Nig) Ltd Vs Migfo (Nig) Ltd. (2018) 9 NWLR (PT.1623) 138, and Eze Vs State (2018) 16 NWLR (PT. 1644) 1, when she condemned “Bakassi Boys” as lawless persons operating outside the law.
He also cited her judgement where she said the charge in a criminal case must tell the accused person enough so that he might know the case against him and prepare his defence.
Fagbemi added, “The above cases among many others, are examples of the show of dexterity of my Lord as an exemplary jurist, who does not show favoritism to class or rank in dispensing her duty. Therefore, the title of this book is not only apt but very fitting for the occasion for which it is being launched.
“Hon. Justice Amina Augie’s astuteness on the bench also made her a globally sought after resource person and has had the honour of being invited to present papers in over 100 seminars.
“She is also credited as being a voice for gender equality especially in the legal profession and more importantly, for fairer representation of women at the appellate courts,” he said.