President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of a former Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Ibitola Adebisi Sotuminu, who passed away at the age of 86.

In his condolence message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday, the President mourned the passing of the former CJ and sent his condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the late jurist.

He also sympathised with the Body of Benchers, the Nigerian Bar Association (NSA), the National Council of Women’s Societies and the International Federation of Women Lawyers.

Tinubu described Justice Sotuminuis as a woman of integrity, honor, and diligence and recalled working with her during his time as the Governor of Lagos State, saying she played a key role in important judicial reforms.

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“Justice Sotuminu’s illustrious career spanned over four decades. She began her judicial journey as a magistrate in 1969, rising to become the Chief Magistrate of Lagos State.

“In 1984, she shattered barriers as the first woman appointed Chief Registrar of the Lagos State High Court. Her elevation as High Court Judge came in February 1986, and as Chief Judge from 2001 to 2004.

“As Chief Judge, her tenure brought in innovative reforms in the Lagos judiciary, some of which include expanding and modernising court infrastructure, digitising judicial processes, and initiatives to expedite justice delivery—foundations underpinning Lagos’ status as a legal pacesetter.

“She was appointed a High Court Judge in 1986 and served as Chief Judge of Lagos State from 2001 to 2004. During her time as Chief Judge, she introduced new reforms, including upgrading court buildings, digitising court processes, and speeding up how cases were handled in the state,” Tinube stated.