KEY POINTS

• Lagos State High Court judge Josephine Efunkumbi Oyefeso has died at the age of 65.
• The judiciary described her as a dedicated jurist who served with integrity and commitment to justice.
• Tributes have poured in, with funeral arrangements expected to be announced by her family.

The Lagos State Judiciary has announced the death of one of its respected judges, Josephine Efunkumbi Oyefeso, who passed away at the age of 65.

According to an official obituary released by the judiciary, Justice Oyefeso died on Friday, May 15, 2026. The announcement of her passing was made public on May 21, 2026.

Her death has been described by the judiciary as a painful loss to the legal community in Lagos State and the wider justice system.

The Lagos State Judiciary expressed deep sorrow over the judge’s death, noting that she served with exceptional dedication, integrity, and commitment to the administration of justice throughout her career.

In a statement, the judiciary praised her for her fairness, diligence, and strong sense of responsibility in handling court proceedings and contributing to legal development in the state.

The statement was issued on behalf of the Chief Judge, alongside other judges, magistrates, and staff of the judiciary, who extended condolences to her family, colleagues, and associates.

Distinguished Career on the Bench

During her years of service, Justice Oyefeso earned a strong reputation within both the Bar and the Bench for her professionalism and impartiality.

She was widely regarded as a disciplined jurist who contributed meaningfully to strengthening judicial processes in Lagos State.

Her career spanned several years of service in the judiciary, where she handled a wide range of legal matters and played a role in shaping judicial administration in the state.

The judiciary described her passing as the end of a distinguished career marked by integrity and public service.

It prayed for the repose of her soul, stating that her contributions to justice would be remembered by colleagues and the legal community.

Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by her family in the coming days.

Justice Oyefeso’s death has left a significant gap in the Lagos judicial system, where she was known for her commitment to due process and justice delivery.

Her passing has been met with mourning across legal circles, as colleagues reflect on her contributions to the growth and stability of the judiciary in Lagos State.