The Federal High Court Headquarters was graced with a sombre yet heartfelt Valedictory Court Session on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, to honour the life and legacy of the late Hon. Justice Daniel Dantsoho Abutu, who served as Chief Judge of the Federal High Court. His passing on June 3, 2025, has cast a profound sense of loss among jurists and legal practitioners alike.
The tribute was led by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, who reflected on Justice Abutu’s remarkable contributions to the judiciary over his nearly twenty-one years of service as a judge, including eighteen months as Chief Judge. Justice Tsoho described Justice Abutu as “a jurist par excellence”, whose dedication and commitment have left an indelible mark on the annals of the Federal High Court and the broader Nigerian judiciary.
Born on March 15, 1946, in Abocho, Kogi State, Justice Abutu’s educational journey began at Qua Iboe Mission Primary School and continued through various institutions, culminating in his degree from Ahmadu Bello University in 1975. After being called to the bar in 1976, he built a distinguished career in law, establishing his own practice before his appointment to the Federal High Court in December 1988. He ascended to the position of Chief Judge on November 11, 2009, retiring in March 2011 upon reaching the mandatory retirement age.
During his tenure, Justice Abutu was noted for his impartiality and clarity in navigating complex legal issues, earning the respect of colleagues and litigants alike. His leadership saw significant developments, including the establishment of new judicial divisions and ongoing infrastructural improvements across multiple court locations.
Justice Tsoho highlighted the publication of a book titled “Honourable Justice Daniel Dantsoho Abutu: Through the Cases,” which aims to immortalise the late jurist’s contributions to legal scholarship. While the book is not an official project of the Federal High Court, it serves as a valuable resource for practitioners and students of law.
Beyond his professional achievements, Justice Abutu was remembered for his humility, kindness, and willingness to support others. His contributions resonate deeply within the community, reminiscent of the biblical figure Dorcas or Tabitha, recognised for her goodwill and charitable acts.
The session concluded with a collective reflection on Justice Abutu’s legacy, marking a poignant farewell to a beloved figure in the Nigerian judiciary. Those wishing to connect with the published work are encouraged to reach out to its Chief Editor, Igho B. Oghoghorie, for further discussion and information.
As the Federal High Court mourns the loss of one of its stalwarts, the memory of Hon. Justice Daniel Dantsoho Abutu lives on through the countless lives he touched and the principles he upheld throughout his esteemed career.
As we gather to mourn the loss of Hon. Justice Dan D. Abutu FCIArb., let us take comfort in the enduring legacy he has left behind. As expressed in the book of Revelations (Rev. 14:13), “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on. “Yes”, says the Spirit, “They will rest from their labour, for their deeds will follow them.”
Additionally, we can reflect on the words from Paul’s Second Letter to Timothy (Chapter 4:6-8), which resonate strongly with Hon. Justice Dan Abutu: “As for me, the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have kept the faith. From now on, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that Day…”
Indeed, by our human assessment, His Lordship has truly earned the crown from our Lord, the righteous Judge.
May God Almighty grant comfort to us all, especially to the family of the late Hon. Justice Dan D. Abutu, FCIArb., and may his soul find eternal rest.
For those of us who remain, let us be mindful of our days and strive to apply our hearts to wisdom.
Farewell, dear brother, esteemed colleague, and devoted family man.
Finally, the family of the late Hon. Justice Daniel Abutu is granted permission to lay his mortal remains to rest in his hometown of Abocho, located in Dekina LGA, Kogi State.
