Office of the Commissioner
Leadership with purpose.
Delivery with impact.
Meet the leadership shaping the vision, priorities and public service of MINISTRY OF JUSTICE.
Commissioner
MINISTRY OF JUSTICE
The office
A clear standard for public service.
The Commissioner provides strategic direction and helps translate the ministry’s mandate into meaningful outcomes for the people of Ebonyi State.
Dr. Odoh Ben Uruchi is a legal scholar, public administrator, and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ebonyi State. Known for his work in law, governance, and education, he has led key reforms that have improved access to justice, modernised legal systems, and strengthened public trust in institutions. He also serves as Chairman of the Body of States Attorneys General of the Federation, where he plays an important role in shaping legal policy at the national level. His designation as a United Nations Peace Ambassador reflects his enduring commitment to justice and human rights.
Dr. Uruchi studied law at Ebonyi State University and the Nigerian Law School, and holds advanced degrees from Ahmadu Bello University, the University of Johannesburg, South Africa and Nnamdi Azikiwe University. His research interests lie in forensic law, criminology, and criminal justice. In recognition of his contributions, he was appointed A Professor of Law in January 2025.
In addition to legal practice, he lectures in the Department of Public Law and directs the Legal Clinic at the Nigeria Police Academy, mentoring young lawyers and contributing to legal education.
On leave from academia, Dr. Uruchi has focused on transforming the justice system in Ebonyi State. He chairs both the State’s Justice Sector Reforms Team and the Prerogative of Mercy Council, leading initiatives that simplify legal processes, protect rights, and expand legal support for vulnerable groups. Under his leadership, Ebonyi State has taken significant steps toward a more efficient and citizen-focused legal system.
He also advises the Assemblies of God Church (Abakaliki District) on legal matters, mediates at the Kano Multi-Door Courthouse, and consults for Settlement House in Ghana. His innovative use of humour in conflict resolution through the television programme Settle with Laughter illustrates his creative approach to peacebuilding.
Dr. Uruchi is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators and the Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria. As a member of the Body of Benchers, he contributes to promoting ethics and standards in the legal profession. He also holds memberships in the Nigerian Bar Association, the Nigerian Forensic Society, and the Association of Professional Negotiators and Mediators.
Ordained as a pastor in the Assemblies of God Church in November 2024, Dr. Uruchi brings a deep sense of service to both his public and private life. He teaches Sunday School and remains actively involved in mentoring others through faith and example. He is married to Barrister Peace Odoh, and together they are committed to legal advocacy and community development.
In his free time, he enjoys reading, writing, travelling, playing golf, and watching African Magic.
Through a career that bridges legal education, public service, and faith, Dr. Odoh Ben Uruchi continues to influence Nigeria’s legal landscape. His leadership has left a lasting mark on the justice sector, and his work remains a source of inspiration for students, professionals, and policymakers alike.
The direction
A more responsive and prosperous Ebonyi.
A shared vision turns policy into a standard for delivery, collaboration and service.
Vision
Progress that reaches communities and improves everyday lives.
Mission
Responsible action, purposeful leadership and measurable public impact.
Vision & mission
VISION:
To build a justice system that is accessible, transparent, and people-centred - one that upholds the rule of law, protects the rights of all citizens, and fosters trust, fairness, and equity as the foundation for sustainable peace and development in Ebonyi State.
MISSION:
To provide efficient, accountable, and innovative legal services that promote justice delivery, safeguard human rights, and support good governance through digitization, institutional capacity building, and people-first policies - ensuring that justice in Ebonyi State serves all, without fear or favour.
CORE VALUES:
- Justice – We uphold fairness, equity, and the rule of law for all citizens.
- Integrity – We conduct ourselves with the highest standards of honesty, accountability, and transparency.
- Excellence – We pursue professionalism, innovation, and efficiency in all aspects of justice delivery.
- Humanity – We place people at the center of our work, ensuring that justice is compassionate, inclusive, and protective of the vulnerable.
- Service – We are committed to serving the public with dedication, responsiveness, and respect.
- Collaboration – We work in partnership with communities, institutions, and stakeholders to strengthen justice and governance.
- Innovation – We embrace technology and creative solutions to make justice accessible, timely, and effective.