The Chief Justice of Nigeria(CJN), Justice Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, has led 18 Justices of the Supreme Court on a condolence visit to the family of the late Justice Sylvester Ngwuta, who died on March 7, 2021.

Also on the visit over the weekend were officials of the court including the Chief Registrar, Hadizatu Mustapha, and some management staff of the Supreme Court.

The delegation was received by Justice Ngwuta’s cousin, Chief Nwali; his brother, Stephen Ngwuta, and his daughter, Chidera Ngwuta.

But speaking during the visit, the CJN stated that it was not an avenue for long speeches, being a sad occasion and so he was brief. He said the late jurist was a complete gentleman who won’t hurt anyone.

“He was highly dedicated to his duty and would definitely be missed by many people. May His Lordship’s soul rest in peace and may God Almighty continue to protect and provide for the family he left behind,” the CJN said.

Responding on behalf of the family, Chief Nwali thanked the CJN and the Supreme Court for their support, saying the apex court has been taking care of the deceased from the day he fell sick, both physically and financially until his demise.

“Up till date, the court has been supportive of the family as regards arrangements leading to the burial of the deceased. We pray for the delegation, just as we will forever be grateful for the kindness and support extended by the court,’’ he said.

A statement by the Special Senior Assistant on Media to the CJN, Ahurukah Isah disclosed that the CJN subsequently signed the condolence register on behalf of himself and his brother Justices.

Justice Ngwuta who was due to retire from the Supreme Court bench on attaining the mandatory retirement age of 70 years on March 30, 2021, gave the ghost by 2.30 am on March 7, 2021.

His remain has been deposited in the National Hospital mortuary pending the conclusion of arrangements for his burial.