When it comes to bridging the knowledge gap between law and social justice, Gloria Mabeiam Ballason has few equals. The quality of the research, the depth of the questions and the lucid manner the facts are delivered, leaves no doubt in the reader’s mind of reading a masterpiece delivered as always through the author’s blunt but unique perspective.Akaahs: The Conscience of a Man, is a stirring and inspirational story of a man who came from humble beginnings and rose to the highest rung of the judicial profession- the Supreme Court.
The rise was not without its unique set of challenges but he prevailed through dint of hard work, determination and abiding by his own self-imposed moral code and armed with his deep and abiding faith in the Almighty.This book gives a detailed account of those struggles, the process of his becoming and ultimately the giant strides achieved by this iconic leader.
The author skillfully navigates the world of law and justice weaving it with picturesque prose that paints a vivid picture of the erudite and distinguished Justice Akaahs- part man, part legal super hero.The author steers us through his emotional but inspiring story of one of the brightest legal minds in Nigeria’s judicial history, chronicles his long and painstaking rise to the highest court in Nigeria which ultimately brings him to political cross roads where he was faced with making one of the hardest choices of his entire life.
His firm moral stand and doggedness in sticking to his guns in the face of opposition is the proof of the ilk of this man.The chapters are powerful and the diction stirring. The details are real, relatable and undulating between the depths of despair and the heights of hope and resilience. I have always been a huge advocate of our leaders telling their story in their own words so that the next generation can learn firsthand about their successes but even more importantly the challenges they have faced. This is one of the ways we can preserve our history and also pass the baton to generation next.I unreservedly recommend this inspirational and informative book to anyone who needs a companion on their life’s journey, regardless of their background, profession or upbringing.
I am glad that this book is not an epitaph but written in the lifetime of the revered Justice Kumai Bayan Akaahs JSC (Rtd) OFR. May His lordship continue to reap the fruits of his commitment and sacrifice throughout his lifetime and in the world after and may we chose to stand on the right side of history for now, posterity and for the good of Nigeria and the world we live in.
Audu Maikori Esq
Founder & Executive Vice-Chairman, Chocolate City
Group Fellow, Nigeria Leadership Initiative (NLI)
