Deandrea Hamilton
Editor
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago – April 16, 2025 – The Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) celebrated a historic moment today with the official swearing-in of Justice Chile Eboe-Osuji, marking him as the first Nigerian-Canadian judge to serve on the esteemed court.
The ceremony took place at The President’s House in Port of Spain, officiated by Her Excellency Christine Carla Kangaloo, President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.
In his address at the ceremony, CCJ President Justice Adrian Saunders highlighted the significance of a rigorous and independent appointment process for the judges of the court. “One of, if not the most sacred role carried out by the RJLSC is the appointment of Judges of the CCJ,” he noted, emphasizing that the selection process is competitive, merit-based, and devoid of any political influence.
Justice Saunders expressed confidence in Justice Eboe-Osuji’s contributions to Caribbean jurisprudence, describing him as “a lawyer and jurist with an impeccable record of service.” His selection followed a comprehensive review by the Regional Judicial and Legal Services Commission (RJLSC), which evaluated applications from 26 candidates, ensuring qualified individuals met the rigorous criteria for judicial experience.
Justice Eboe-Osuji is renowned for his extensive background in international law, particularly in criminal and human rights law. He previously held the prestigious position of President of the International Criminal Court (ICC) and served as Legal Advisor to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. His vast experience also extends to arguments presented before some of Canada’s highest courts and notable contributions to international jurisprudence, including submissions to the European Court of Human Rights and the U.S. Supreme Court.
During his remarks, Justice Eboe-Osuji emphasized the critical role of the CCJ within the region, stating, “The Court serves its purpose not only as a court for CARICOM nations to resolve disputes arising from the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas, but also there is no need to look beyond the seas for a final court of appeal, given the quality of judges we have on that Bench. It is an incredible honour for me to have been selected.”
President Kangaloo extended her congratulations, recognizing Justice Eboe-Osuji as “a brilliant legal mind and a gifted jurist whose long and distinguished career has spanned many countries and institutions.” She expressed confidence that his appointment would contribute to the CCJ’s pursuit of judicial excellence.
Justice Eboe-Osuji fills the vacancy left by Justice Andrew Burgess, who retired on April 11, 2025. Judges of the CCJ serve until the age of 72, while the President of the Court is appointed for a non-renewable term of seven years.
The swearing-in of Justice Eboe-Osuji marks a significant step forward for the CCJ, reinforcing its commitment to a diverse and competent judiciary and enhancing its pivotal role in the legal framework of the Caribbean.
