The immediate past President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal, Hon. Justice Patience Onuwa Elumeze, has passed away two years after retiring from active service. Justice Elumeze, who was in her 60s, died on Tuesday in Abuja following a brief illness, sources within the Delta State judiciary confirmed on Wednesday.

Appointed Acting President of the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal in November 2020 by then-Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Justice Elumeze was formally sworn in as substantive President in June 2021. She served meritoriously until her retirement in April 2023. During her tenure, Justice Elumeze was widely commended for implementing administrative reforms that improved judicial efficiency and enhanced the speedy dispensation of justice in Delta State’s customary courts.

“She was a kind, passionate, and hardworking leader who made significant contributions to justice delivery and the welfare of staff during her time in office,” said court staff speaking on condition of anonymity. When a correspondent visited the Delta State Customary Court of Appeal Headquarters along High Court Road, Asaba, discussions around her death dominated conversations among staff and lawyers.

Justice Elumeze’s passing is described as a huge loss to the judiciary family in Delta State. Her predecessor was Justice Stella Ogene, whom she succeeded following Ogene’s retirement. Colleagues remembered her dedication and compassion, noting her impactful leadership left a lasting mark on Delta State’s judicial system.