The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday confirmed the appointment of Professor Dakas C.J. Dakas, SAN, as Chairman of the Nigerian Law Reform Commission, and Dr. Uchenna Eugene Okolocha as Commissioner representing the South-South geopolitical zone.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
The confirmation followed the adoption of the report of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, which screened the nominees and found them suitably qualified based on their legal competence, professional experience, and integrity.
Presenting the report during plenary, Chairman of the Judiciary Committee, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), noted that the appointments were made pursuant to Section 2(1) and (2) of the Nigerian Law Reform Commission Act, 2022, which empowers the President to nominate a chairman and three commissioners, subject to Senate confirmation.
“After careful consideration of the legal competence, public service experience, and integrity of the nominees, the committee found them suitable to serve,” Adegbonmire said. “They possess the requisite knowledge and professional standing to advance the mandate of the Nigerian Law Reform Commission.”
The screening exercise, held on June 25, featured the appearances of Professor Dakas and Dr. Okolocha. However, a third nominee, Professor Fatima Alkali, who was nominated to represent the North East, formally declined the nomination and communicated her withdrawal to the Presidency.
In its report, the committee urged the Presidency to forward a new nominee from the North East, preferably a female candidate, to maintain regional representation and promote gender inclusivity.
“In the interest of fairness and national representation, the committee recommends that a new nominee be considered from the North East, ideally a woman of equivalent professional stature,” Adegbonmire stated.
During debate on the floor, senators from across party lines endorsed the nominations. Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) praised Professor Dakas’s outstanding credentials, describing him as “eminently qualified” and a committed legal mind.
“Some of us were privileged to be his classmates and can attest to his intellect and dedication to the law,” Oshiomhole added.
Senator Adebiade echoed similar sentiments, commending the administration for prioritizing merit over politics.
“This is one of those moments when we can all agree that competence has triumphed over politics. Both nominees are exemplary choices,” he said.
Following a unanimous voice vote, the Senate confirmed both nominees.
In his closing remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio congratulated the appointees and applauded the Judiciary Committee for its diligence.
“We congratulate Professor Dakas and Dr. Okolocha on their confirmation and wish them fruitful service to the nation in good health and sound mind,” Akpabio said.
He emphasized the critical role of the Nigerian Law Reform Commission in modernizing the country’s legal framework.
“This Commission is not a ceremonial body. It’s a driver of justice reform in our democracy. We expect these appointees to get to work immediately,” he added.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
