Late Justice Nasir Ajanah: A Gavel that Echoed Justice, Compassion, and Peace

By Dada Ahmed.

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When Justice Nasir Anate Ajanah passed on on June 28, 2020, in Gwagwalada during an illness, aged 64, Kogi State,and indeed Nigeria,lost more than a seasoned jurist. It is generally believed that the nation lost a symbol of fairness, a voice of moderation, and a quiet force for unity.

This is because Justice Ajanah was not just a man who wore the robes of justice,he was the embodiment of it.

As Chief Judge of Kogi State, Justice Ajanah commanded respect not only for his brilliance in law but for his profound humanity. He was meticulous in thought, fearless in judgment, and humble in victory. In an age when the judiciary sometimes struggled under pressure, Ajanah remained firm,a beacon of judicial integrity.

But Justice Ajanah was more than a courtroom icon. He had the rare ability to connect across class, faith, and culture. Whether you were a fellow judge, a junior clerk, a market woman, or an aspiring sportsman and woman, he treated you with equal dignity.

“He believed that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done. He didn’t speak often, but when he did, everyone listened,” a former colleague,who would his identity mentioned, said.

Justice Ajanah was deeply rooted in his Islamic faith and practiced its values of charity, humility, and service. He contributed silently but generously to religious and humanitarian causes. He was known to give, support, and uplift,without fanfare.

This side of him shone even brighter in his community. From supporting local mosques and health centres to mentoring young lawyers, his philanthropy was wide-reaching and personal.

As Dr. Haroun Opotu Yussuff, Chairman of the Kogi Central for Peace and Development Initiative,(Kogi Central Think Tank Forum) noted in his heartfelt tribute titled “A Tribute to a Legendary Life”:

“We celebrate the life and legacy of Late Justice Nasir Anate Ajanah, a man whose impact will be deeply missed but never forgotten. As a champion of justice, he stood tall, unwavering in his commitment to fairness and equality.

“Justice Ajanah was a unifying force, bringing people together through his generosity, kindness, and compassion. His leadership extended beyond the courtroom—as a revered religious and community leader, inspiring countless individuals.

“A father of sport, he nurtured talent and promoted excellence. His cheerful spirit and giving nature touched many lives, leaving a lasting legacy.

“We remember him as a rare gem, a prolific jurist, and a man of peace. May his soul rest in peace. May Allah increase his and the rest of our beloved ones in Aljannah Firdausi, and may his memory continue to inspire us all.”

Outside the judiciary, Justice Ajanah had a deep love for sports—especially handball. But he didn’t just enjoy watching it; he invested in it. He saw sports as a platform to engage the youth, keep them off the streets, and help them discover purpose.

He sponsored local tournaments, provided kits, and even helped talented handball players access opportunities beyond the state. To many young people, he was not “Justice Ajanah the judge”—he was “Baba” who cared about their dreams.

Analysing the life of the late Chief Judge in terms of a legacy of peace, principle, and purpose he lived, it is right to say that it is rare to find someone who excelled in such diverse roles—jurist, philanthropist, sports patron, community leader, and father figure. Yet, Justice Ajanah wore all these hats with grace and without pride.

His departure is a painful and deep loss, but it is also a reminder that leadership anchored in justice, humility, and compassion is never forgotten.

His judgments still guide legal minds. His kindness still warms the hearts of those he helped. And his memory lives on in the smiles of the young, the gratitude of the many, and the peace of a state he served till his last breath.

It must be stressed that Justice Nasir Ajanah is being remembered not just as a judge, but as someone whose judgments and actions in the courtroom consistently reflected fairness, compassion, and a commitment to peace.

His influence is portrayed as lasting and deeply impactful,like a gavel strike that continues to resonate long after it’s struck.

It must be stressed that Justice Nasir Ajanah is being remembered not just as a judge, but as personality whose judgments and actions in the courtroom consistently reflected fairness, compassion, and a commitment to peace.

The influence of late Justice Ajanah,a worthy son of Egbira nation, is portrayed as lasting and deeply impactful,like a gavel strike that continues to resonate long after it’s struck, leaving a towering legacy worthy of emulation.

Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
ahmeddada008@gmail.com