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By Correspondent in Lokoja.
The Kogi State Judiciary has been plunged into mourning following the death of the pioneer President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice S. K. Otta (Rtd.), a revered jurist whose contributions helped shape the administration of customary justice in the state.
Justice Otta died in Abuja on Saturday March 7,2026 after a brief illness, bringing to an end a distinguished legal career marked by integrity, wisdom and unwavering commitment to the cause of justice.
The sad development was announced in a statement issued by the Chief Registrar of the Customary Court of Appeal, Kogi State, Mrs. Safiya E. Aliyu, on behalf of the President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice S. M. J. Usman, the court’s family and the entire Kogi State Judiciary and a copy made available to The Reporters in Lokoja on Sunday.
Described as a legal icon and accomplished pioneer, Justice Otta played a historic role in laying the foundation for the establishment and growth of the Customary Court of Appeal in Kogi State.
His leadership in the formative years of the court was widely acknowledged as instrumental in strengthening the administration of customary law and justice delivery in the state.
Throughout his illustrious career on the Bench, the late jurist earned widespread respect for his dedication, fairness and deep understanding of the law.
Colleagues and members of the legal community regarded him as a man of rare humility and profound wisdom who remained committed to upholding justice without fear or favour.
The Kogi State Judiciary noted that his passing represents a profound loss not only to the state but also to Nigeria’s judiciary and the wider legal community.
“His legacy of service, humility and commitment to the administration of justice will remain indelible in the annals of the Kogi State Judiciary,” the statement said.
Justice Otta’s life and service left an enduring mark on the judicial system, particularly in the development of customary jurisprudence in Kogi State.
The judiciary prayed that Almighty God would forgive his shortcomings, grant his soul eternal rest and give his family, colleagues and all who mourn him the strength to bear the irreparable loss.
In another statement, Pst. F.O Fagorite of Apostolic Church, Lokoja said the deceased died at 86, describing him as one of respected elders and pillars of the church.
“The late elder, widely regarded as a devoted and committed member of the church, served faithfully for many years and remained active in the service of God and the church community until his death.
“His dedication to the growth and spiritual development of the church earned him the respect and admiration of members and leaders alike,”he said.
According to him,Church members described the death of the Justice as a great loss, noting that his life was marked by humility, service and unwavering commitment to the work of God.
The church members said late Justice Otta’s contributions to the church and the example he set for younger members would continue to be remembered.
Details of the funeral arrangements, the statement added, will be announced in due course.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
