Okon Abang

Okon Efreti Abang (born 10 January 1961) is a Nigerian jurist who serves as a Justice of the Court of Appeal. He was appointed a Judge of the Federal High Court in 2009 and was elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2023 following the recommendation of the National Judicial Council and subsequent approval by President Bola Tinubu.

Early life and education

Abang was born on 10 January 1961 in Oduo-Ebughu, Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. He attended Central School, Ebughu, before proceeding to St. Vincent's Secondary School, Oti-Oron, where he obtained the West African School Certificate. He later attended the School of Basic Studies, Akamkpa, Cross River State, before studying law at the University of Calabar, graduating with a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree in 1987. He subsequently attended the Nigerian Law School, Lagos Campus, and was called to the Nigerian Bar on 3 November 1988.

Judicial career

Abang began his legal career after his call to the Bar in 1988. In June 2009, he was appointed a Judge of the Federal High Court, where he presided over civil, constitutional and high-profile criminal matters, particularly cases involving financial crimes and public office holders.

In June 2023, the National Judicial Council recommended Abang for elevation to the Court of Appeal alongside eight other judges. He was sworn in as a Justice of the Court of Appeal in September 2023 by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola.

Abang also presided over proceedings involving former Chairman of the Pension Reform Task Team, Abdulrasheed Maina, including decisions relating to bail and trial management.