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Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa: A Life Dedicated to Fighting for Justice and Equality in Nigeria

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Rummage

by Ife-Chudeni A. Oputa

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Portrait Of Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa, A Nigerian Lawyer, Judge, And Human Rights Activist Rummage Ife Chudeni A Oputa

Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa, SAN, CFR (October 18, 1924 – May 4, 2014) was a renowned Nigerian lawyer, judge, and human rights activist who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and equality in Nigeria. Known for his unwavering commitment to the rule of law and his passion for social justice, Oputa left an enduring legacy on the Nigerian legal system and played a pivotal role in the country's fight for social justice.

Early Life and Education

Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa was born on October 18, 1924, in Oguta, Imo State, Nigeria. He received his early education at St. Patrick's College, Calabar, and later obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Durham, England. He proceeded to the University of London, where he earned a Bachelor of Laws degree.

Legal Career

Oputa was called to the English Bar in 1955 and the Nigerian Bar in 1956. He began his legal career as a Crown Counsel in the Eastern Region of Nigeria. In 1965, he was appointed a High Court Judge. He later served as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

Human Rights Activism

Throughout his career, Oputa was a vocal advocate for human rights and social justice. He was a founding member of the Nigerian Civil Liberties Union (NCLU) and served as its president for many years. He also served on the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.

The Oputa Panel

In 1999, Oputa was appointed Chairman of the Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission, popularly known as the Oputa Panel. The panel was established by President Olusegun Obasanjo to investigate human rights violations committed under military rule in Nigeria. The panel's work resulted in the release of several political prisoners and the payment of compensation to victims of human rights abuses.

Legacy

Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa died on May 4, 2014, at the age of 89. His legacy as a renowned lawyer, judge, and human rights activist who dedicated his life to fighting for justice and equality in Nigeria will continue to inspire generations to come.

Rummage Ife Chudeni Oputa was a legal luminary and a tireless advocate for social justice. His unwavering commitment to the rule of law and his passion for human rights left an enduring legacy on the Nigerian legal system and played a pivotal role in the country's fight for social justice. His life and work continue to inspire those who strive for a more just and equitable world.

Rummage

by Ife-Chudeni A. Oputa

4.2 out of 5