Born on July 11, 1959 in Nung Ukim, Ikono Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State. His Lordship’s exemplary career is underpinned by an unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and legal excellence.
Hon. Justice Okoro’s journey in education began at Methodist School, Nung Ukim, where he completed his primary education between 1965 and 1972. He proceeded to Boys High School, Oron, for his secondary education from 1973 to 1977, laying the foundation for his future in law.
His pursuit of higher education took him to the School of Arts & Science, Uyo, where he studied from 1979 to 1981, and subsequently to the University of Lagos, where he earned his Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from 1981 to 1984. Hon. Justice Okoro attended the prestigious Nigerian Law School, Lagos, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985, officially beginning his legal career.
Hon. Justice Okoro embarked on his judicial career in 1986 as a Magistrate Grade II, demonstrating early on a remarkable dedication to the rule of law. Over the years, he rose steadily through the magisterial ranks, culminating in his promotion to Chief Magistrate Grade I in 1996.
In recognition of his outstanding performance and expertise, he was appointed a Judge of the High Court of Akwa Ibom State in 1998, a position he held with distinction until 2006. His Lordship’s reputation for sound judgment and legal acumen earned him elevation to the Court of Appeal in 2006, where he served diligently for seven years, until 2013. On November 15, 2013, Hon. Justice Okoro was elevated to the Supreme Court of Nigeria, the pinnacle of judicial service in the country.
Throughout his career, Hon. Justice Okoro has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s electoral jurisprudence. He served as a member of various election petition tribunals, including the Election Petition Tribunal in Kano in 1998, the Governorship and Legislative Houses Election Petition Tribunal in Ondo State in 2003, and the Governorship and Legislative Houses Election Petition Tribunal No. 2 in Delta State in 2003.
His Lordship has attended numerous seminars, workshops, and conferences, both locally and internationally, further enriching his legal expertise. These engagements have not only enhanced his judicial competence but have also contributed to the broader development of Nigeria’s judiciary. In recognition of his exceptional service to the nation, Hon. Justice Okoro was conferred with the prestigious national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) in May, 2023.
Hon. Justice Okoro is celebrated for his profound knowledge of the law, impeccable integrity, and unyielding commitment to justice. His judicial philosophy is deeply rooted in fairness, equity, and the protection of constitutional principles, qualities that have earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues, legal practitioners, and the public. His Lordship is happily married with children.