By Samson Adeyanju
Founder, Home to Enhance African Life (HEAL), Heal Media Africa (HMA), Messengers of Justice Sister’s (MoJS), Rev. Barr Leo O. Okonkwo has described the state of justice in Nigeria as one in pain, even as he stated that the judiciary is sick.
The Rev., who has a vision for justice and a mission to serve the poor, made description shortly after he was called to bar, last Wednesday in Abuja.
The Clergyman, ordained in Cameron, who is a promoter of the proposed Bridget University Mbaise, called for collective reflection and action to restore justice in the country, emphasizing that blaming individuals or institutions is counterproductive.
He likened the situation to a sickness that requires treatment, even as he stressed the need for everyone to work together towards justice.
Rev. Okonkwo emphasized the importance of practical experience and mentorship in the legal profession, despite intellectual readiness.
He said the significance of his call to the bar is not only for his personal achievements but also for his vision of establishing a university that offers legal education to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Rev. Okonkwo shared his journey from seminary to legal studies, aiming to create a congregation of legal professionals dedicated to pro bono work.
His vision, however, was not fully realized due to differing goals within his family. Despite this, he founded missions for upliftment of the poorest and marginalised in USA and went to UK to study civil law an graduated in 2021 prior to this call to bar
Reflecting on his early supporters, Rev. Okonkwo praised Late Bishops Joseph Edra Upko for his unwavering support, even though other bishops did not share his vision.
He also acknowledged the support of Bishop Abraham Kome of Cameroon, who ordained him in Cameroon, where he had previously taught law.
It is worthy to note that the clergyman’s journey and insights shed light on the challenges faced by the justice system in Nigeria and the ongoing efforts to address them.
