The Nigerian judiciary is in mourning following the sudden death of Honorable Justice Oluyemisi Adelaja (née Ilori), a distinguished High Court Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in Abuja. Justice Adelaja, aged 60, passed away on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to justice, public service, and humanitarian causes.
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In a heartfelt family announcement, described as a “Call to Glory,” relatives expressed profound grief while celebrating her impactful life. “With heavy hearts and gratitude to God for a life lived in the service of God, the judiciary, and humanity, we announce the sudden passing of our Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunty, and friend,” the statement read. Signed by Daphney Adelaja on behalf of the family, it underscored the shock of her departure, which came just days before her 61st birthday.
Justice Adelaja’s death has elicited widespread tributes from colleagues, alumni, and legal practitioners. Journalist Chris Nwandu, a fellow alumnus of Lagos State University (LASU) Class of 1990, described the loss on Facebook as a “SAD DAY FOR LASU CLASS OF 90,” remembering her as a schoolmate and trailblazer whose elevation to the bench in 2020 symbolized perseverance and excellence. An Instagram tribute echoed this sentiment, honoring her “indelible mark on the Ilori family and the legal fraternity,” highlighting her role as a beacon for women in law.
Appointed to the FCT High Court in April 2020 by the National Judicial Council under the chairmanship of then-Chief Justice of Nigeria, Dr. Ibrahim Tanko Muhammad, Justice Adelaja brought over two decades of legal experience to the bench. A product of LASU’s prestigious law program, she graduated in the Class of 1990 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in the early 1990s. Her career spanned private practice, public sector roles, and advocacy for ethical governance, earning her respect for her fair-minded rulings and mentorship of young lawyers.
Colleagues recall her as a judge who prioritized access to justice, particularly in family and civil matters, often advocating for vulnerable groups. “She was a pillar of integrity in an era of challenges for the judiciary,” one lawyer told TheNigeriaLawyer.
The FCT High Court has yet to issue an official statement on funeral arrangements, but sources indicate a valedictory court session and private burial rites are being planned in Abuja and Lagos in the coming days.
Justice Adelaja is survived by her husband, children, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family.
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