*A LIFE OF SERVICE AND SCHOLARSHIP: PROF. FRANCIS DIKE MARKS 84TH BIRTHDAY WITH BOOK PRESENTATION*
By Ella Michaels
Renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Prof. Francis Dike, celebrated his 84th birthday in grand style with the public presentation of two new books: "Thought and Contract Action at Common Law" and "Prof. Francis Dike SAN: A Consummate Lawyer and Academic". The event, attended by a gathering of eminent personalities, including legal luminaries, academics, and traditional rulers, was a testament to Prof. Dike's enduring impact on Nigeria's legal and academic landscapes.
Chief Mike Ahamba, Chairman of the occasion, described old age as a privilege granted by God, praising Prof. Dike as a reasonable man and a recipient of divine blessings. Prof. Proteus Uzoma, who reviewed the biography, highlighted its focus on perseverance in the face of challenges, while Chief Eze Okeafor, a former student of Prof. Dike, reviewed "Thought and Contract Action at Common Law", describing it as a profound analysis of the common law approach.
The book is poised to inspire human capital development and rejuvenate the spirit of youths in a society grappling with uncertainty about its future. Dignitaries at the event, including the Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Chief Cyprian Akaolisa, and a representative of Senator Osita Izunaso, commended Prof. Dike for his unwavering commitment to knowledge and nation-building.
In his remarks, Prof. Dike expressed gratitude to God for the gift of longevity and emphasized the importance of strengthening Nigeria's judiciary. He lamented the decline in jurisprudence, stating that Nigeria must follow the example of England, America, and other countries in recognizing the critical role of judgments from lower courts ¹.
Prof. Dike's celebration was a fitting tribute to his life of service and scholarship, which has had a lasting impact on Nigeria's legal and academic communities. As a former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Imo State, Prof. Dike has been a vocal advocate for justice and human rights, and has written extensively on legal topics , His legacy continues to inspire future generations of lawyers, academics, and leaders.
