The Legal Luminary: Barrister Onyechi Ikpeazu SAN
Barrister Onyechi Ikpeazu, Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), stands out as one of the most accomplished and respected legal practitioners in Nigeria. His career, marked by landmark victories and significant contributions to the legal profession, exemplifies the excellence, integrity, and dedication that define the best in the field.
Born in Onitsha, Anambra State, on April 15, 1959, Onyechi Ikpeazu's journey into the legal world began with a solid foundation in education. He pursued his early education in Nigeria before moving to the United States for higher studies. Ikpeazu attended Evanston College and Lake Forest College before obtaining his Doctor of Juridical Science degree from Oklahoma City University in 1982. This diverse educational background equipped him with a robust understanding of both local and international legal principles.
Upon completing his studies, Ikpeazu returned to Nigeria and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984, becoming a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. His entry into the legal profession was the start of a career that would see him rise to prominence through his exceptional advocacy skills and unwavering commitment to justice.
Dr. Ikpeazu's contributions to the legal profession have been widely recognized. In 2002, his prowess in advocacy earned him the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). This honor is a testament to his expertise and success in legal practice. Further cementing his reputation, in 2007, he was awarded the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.
Ikpeazu has also been an active member of the legal community, serving as Chairman of the Onitsha Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association and as a member of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the national body, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). His involvement in these roles demonstrates his dedication to advancing the legal profession and supporting his peers.
Barrister Ikpeazu's career is highlighted by several landmark cases that have had a profound impact on Nigerian law and governance. Among these, the cases of Mojekwu v. Mojekwu and Mojekwu v. Iwuchukwu stand out. These cases were pivotal in preserving the inheritance rights of women in Nigeria, marking significant progress in gender equality under the law.
Another landmark case was Ngige v. Obi, reported in (2006) 14 NWLR, which confirmed Mr. Peter Obi as the duly elected Governor of Anambra State. Ikpeazu's advocacy in this case was instrumental in ensuring that the democratic process was upheld and that the rightful candidate assumed office.
Perhaps one of his most notable contributions was in the Supreme Court case of Obi v. INEC. This case redefined the election metric rule, ensuring that a candidate who had been wrongly kept out of office could still enjoy their full four-year tenure from the date they took the oath of office. This decision has had a lasting impact on the electoral process in Nigeria, ensuring fairer representation and adherence to constitutional guarantees.
Ikpeazu also represented the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in numerous election petitions, including those following the 2011 and 2015 general elections. His defense of INEC in these cases further established his reputation as a leading expert in election petition advocacy.
In recent years, Ikpeazu continued to make headlines with his successful defense of high-profile clients. Notably, in 2023, he defended the victory of Senator Ademola Adeleke in the Osun State governorship election. The Supreme Court's decision to affirm Adeleke's victory, nullifying the election petition tribunal's judgment, was another victory for Ikpeazu's exceptional legal acumen.
Beyond his professional achievements, Onyechi Ikpeazu is also a devoted family man. He is happily married and has wonderful children who are excelling in their respective fields. His ability to balance a demanding career with a fulfilling personal life is an inspiration to his character and dedication.
Barrister Onyechi Ikpeazu SAN is not just a legal practitioner; he is a gladiator in the courtroom, a defender of justice, and a beacon of excellence in the legal profession. His career, marked by significant legal victories and contributions to the advancement of the legal profession in Nigeria, serves as an inspiration to aspiring lawyers and a standard of excellence for his peers.
In the words of a rephrased gladiator's quote: "Ikpeazu was the best because he won precisely. He won the best because the crowd loved him. Win the crowd, and you will win your freedom." Barrister Ikpeazu has indeed won the crowd, and through his dedication to justice and the rule of law, he has earned his place as one of the greatest legal minds of his generation. Salute to our Gladiator. Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate.
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