By Henry Umahi
Chief Roy Ogbonnaya Umahi Nwaeze (ROUN) can be described as a man of timber and calibre. Over the years, he has displayed deep knowledge and expertise in the legal profession.
Last week, ROUN was celebrated in style. From the fringe of the Sahara to the Atlantic coastline, political leaders, boardroom titans, professionals, media giants, traditional rulers and clerics descended on Congress Hall, Transcorp Hilton, Abuja to identify with the legal luminary as he was inaugurated as a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The hall was exquisitely decorated and the cultural buoyancy of the country was exhibited through music and dances.
Many agreed that Roy had paid his dues in the legal profession and deserved to be elevated to the lofty position of a SAN.
The chairman of the occasion and former senate president, Chief Anyim Pius Anyim, presented “one very special product from Ebonyi State” to the guests.
Anyim, who is also a lawyer, described ROUN as a versatile advocate with vast knowledge of commercial law, company law, election petition matters, criminal law, labour law, labour dispute and land law.
In his remarks, Gen. Abel Obi Umahi (retd) said: “Roy is a successful person, not just a successful lawyer because as a young man, he was very hardworking.”
He added that when Roy became a lawyer, his name became synonymous with law because he invested heavily in law books and he has been consistent with that.
“If you go to his chambers today, his library is one of the most endowed in this nation,” the retired general said.
At the event, ROUN said that he was blessed with the best brothers in the world, adding that he enjoyed the support of his children and family.
“When I say it, I say it from the depth of my heart. I have the best brothers in the universe,” Roy said.
In his congratulatory message, Osuji Halifax Nwaze said: “This is a privilege awarded him as a mark of his excellence in the practice of legal profession. This elevation is well deserved.”
Similarly, a statement signed by Nze Ogbonnaya Ene Odii and Onu Innocent Chidiebere, national president and national secretary, Adu Youth Forum, respectively stated: “We congratulate you on your well-deserved conferment of the prestigious Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title.
“This remarkable achievement is a testament to your unwavering dedication, professional excellence and outstanding contributions to the legal profession. You have consistently demonstrated the highest standard of integrity and competence. The entire Youths of Uburu are indeed proud of you.”
Veteran journalist, Mr Ezeako Odi, said: “Congratulations to our learned SAN. Uburu is rising from glory to glory. More blessings ahead for our always cheerful and smiling trail blazer.”
Meanwhile, ROUN conveyed his deep appreciation to everyone who supported him in diverse ways and those who attended the ceremony marking the conferment of the rank of SAN on him.
He said: “Your presence at the event meant a whole lot to me and made it quite a remarkable occasion. I am indeed deeply grateful. Thanks so very much. I am equally thankful to those who wished me well but were unable to attend the event. Your love isn’t lost on me. Some people went as far as presenting some beautiful souvenirs they made for me. I am immensely thankful. May God bless you all and may you all be celebrated in the mighty name of Jesus.”