As He Unveils His Book On Law
Erudite academics, frontline politicians and reputable traditional rulers gathered on Friday 13th, December 2024 at Imo State University Owerri to witness the launching of the latest book authored by Prof. Francis Dike SAN, former Imo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, former Chairman Nigeria Bar Association Owerri Branch and former professor of law, Imo State University as he marked his eighty fourth birthday anniversary.
The chairman of the occasion, Chief Mike Ahamba while addressing the crowd at the ceremony, expressed gratitude to them for honouring the invitation to celebrate the birthday anniversary of Prof. Dike and to witness the launching of his latest book, “Tort Or Contract Action At Common Law” and “Prof. Francis Dike (SAN), Consummate Lawyer And Academic” written in his honour by TNJ Umunakwe. He described Prof. Dike as a very polite, accommodating and unassuming gentleman who has great respect for everyone, both young and old.
He revealed that he has known Prof. Dike for a very long time and the latter has earned his respect through his words and deeds. He recounted some personal encounters with the celebrant especially in the law profession, citing a particular scenario that earned him the title “The Reasonable Man”.
Also speaking at the society event, TNJ Umunakwe, the CEO of Alphabet Nigeria Publishers and the author of the book “Prof. Francis Dike SAN Consummate Lawyer And Academic” described Prof. Dike as a seasoned legal luminary whose humility, wealth of knowledge and hard work has continued to distinguish him from his contemporaries. He extolled him for the remarkable roles he played during his time as the Attorney-General of Imo state, emphasizing on how he amicably resolved the conflict of ownership of Imo State University, Uturu, between Imo and Abia States and how he overcame many rigorous and challenging tests and cases which brought about his elevation as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The climax of the occasion was the Review of the books which was done by Barr. Eze Daniel Okafor, a legal luminary who was a student of Prof. Dike, and Prof. Protus Nathan Uzorma, a University Don and renowned Public Affairs Analyst.
Prof. Uzorma while reviewing the book on the biography of Prof. Dike titled “Prof. Francis Dike SAN Consummate Lawyer And Academic” noted that the book is about the life and legacy of Prof. Dike, revealing many secrets of how he navigated the storms and challenges of life to arrive at the apex of his career.
Prof. Uzorma stated that this book serves as a motivation to the younger generation especially the youths who have visions for the future, adding that it is a must read for every purpose-driven human being as it offers hope and assurance of survival amid severe financial challenges and other natural phenomenon.
Barr. Eze Daniel Okafor reviewed the book titled ” Tort Or Contract Action At Common Law”, describing it as an invaluable resource for scholars and law practitioners all over the globe. Written in clear, articulative and concise language, Okafor said the book addresses the conflict between the historical origins of tort and contract as they evolve.
He noted that the book is a significant contribution to the ongoing debate on judiciary reform, adding that it lends weight to the importance of giving more value to the high court decisions in Nigeria and offers deep knowledge of the evolution of the basic principles in regard to the law of contract or tort.
The Orlu Zone Senator, Senator Osita Izunaso ably represented, the Attorney-General of Imo State, Barr. C. C Akaolisa, Prof. Uchefula U. Chukwumeze, the Vice Chancellor of Imo State University (Imsu), Nigeria Watchdog Newspaper and many others publicly expressed gratitude to God for the impactful life of Prof. Dike, attesting to his integrity, probity and unique ways of positively affecting everyone who crosses path with him. They supported the occasion massively in genuine appreciation to God for the blessings of old age and fulfilled life of Prof. Dike.
Prof. Dike appreciated everyone who graced the occasion and thanked them for their individual contributions towards the success of the event.
Other dignitaries at the occasion were HRH Eze John Nwosu, the Ezeudo of Ihioma, Prof. Chuka Okonkwo, former Vice Chancellor, Imo State University Owerri, Prof. A Awuzie, former Vice Chancellor, Imo State University, Engr. Chimee Nzeribe, Chief Barr. Nnodum (SAN) amongst numerous others.
