Dr. Chinedu Samuel Maduba, Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association, Port Harcourt Branch, has called on lawyers and other professionals to adopt emerging technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), while building legacies that would stand the test of time. He made this statement during a book launch in Port Harcourt, where a book titled "AI, Justice & The Rule of Law" was unveiled in honour of Chief Dame Hon. Justice Sotonye Denton-West, PJ, JCA (Emeritus).
The book launch, which took place at the Chief Judge's Ceremonial Hall, High Court Complex, Port Harcourt, was attended by serving and retired judicial officers from Rivers and Bayelsa States, Senior Advocates of Nigeria, members of the Bar and Bench, as well as other distinguished guests. The NBA Port Harcourt Executive Committee, led by its Chairman, Dr. Maduba, was among the prominent professional bodies that attended the ceremony in honour of the retired appellate court jurist.
During the event, Maduba expressed happiness over the opportunity to celebrate the life, career, and enduring legacy of Justice Denton-West, stressing that her contribution to the legal profession and the administration of justice remained worthy of recognition. He admonished members of the legal profession and other participants to live lives capable of leaving positive legacies.
Maduba encouraged participants to procure and read the book, describing its themes as relevant to the changing realities confronting the legal profession and society in an era increasingly influenced by Artificial Intelligence and digital technology. The book focuses on three major themes, including Artificial Intelligence and the future of Africa, Digital Sovereignty, African Innovation, and Constitutional Democracy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.
The themes formed the basis of extensive discussions by different panellists, who examined the opportunities, challenges, and implications of Artificial Intelligence for Africa, governance, constitutional democracy, and the administration of justice. The panel sessions were moderated by distinguished lawyers, Tonye Krukrubo, SAN, and Victoria Udoh, following a keynote address delivered by the representative of the Chief Judge of Borno State, Hon. Justice Kashim Zannah, OFR.
The book was reviewed by retired Justice of the Rivers State Judiciary, Hon. Justice Adolphus Enebeli, who highlighted salient issues contained in the publication and its relevance to contemporary legal practice and the justice system. The occasion also provided an opportunity for members of the legal profession and other dignitaries to celebrate the 80th birthday of Justice Sotonye Denton-West.
Justice Denton-West, in her appreciation message, expressed gratitude to the organisers, members of the Bar and Bench, family, friends, and other dignitaries who honoured her and celebrated the milestone with her. The event was a testament to her remarkable judicial career and service to the nation.
Key points
- Dr. Chinedu Samuel Maduba urges lawyers to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) to build lasting legacies.
- The book "AI, Justice & The Rule of Law" focuses on AI's impact on Africa, governance, and constitutional democracy.
- The event celebrated the life, career, and legacy of Justice Sotonye Denton-West, marking her 80th birthday.
