Sierra Leone Telegraph: 28 May 2021:
Sierra Leone’s Chief Justice, Desmond Babatunde Edwards yesterday said that the death of Justice Dr. Rosolu Bankole John Thompson is an irreparable loss and described him as one of the finest legal minds in society.
Justice Bankole Thompson, as he is fondly known, is one of three Judges appointed by President Bio to head the recently concluded Commission of Inquiry into the activities of the former APC government.
Speaking at the Judiciary’s official opening Book of Condolence and Solemn Tribute Session in honour of the Late Justice Dr. Thompson (Photo), the Chief Justice said that Justice Thompson lived a selfless and dedicated life to humanity.
“You have played your part in this world’s stage…..You have fought a good fight, finished the course and kept the faith, henceforth there is laid up for you a crown of righteousness.”
He added that such selfless and remarkable character distinguished the late man as a true embodiment of the finest human and legal virtues.
To the family of Justice Thompson and wife Mrs. Dr. Adiatu Thompson, the Chief Justice expressed on behalf of the Bench his deepest sympathy and prayed that God comforts them.
In his declaration of purpose, Justice Reginald Fyn, said that the Bench, SLBA, Law Office and the Judiciary have lost a “Giant Cotton Tree.” According to him, tradition demands they should gather to honour and celebrate the good work of the late Justice.
In his tribute, President of the Residual Special Court of Sierra Leone Justice Jon Kamanda said that the late Justice Dr. Thompson (Photo above) left behind indelible footprints that show young Lawyers the way to flourish in the legal field.
He described Justice Thompson as man of no mean repute who demonstrated patriotism, excellence, humility, and efficiently served his country and humanity.
Speaking on behalf of the Sierra Leone Bar Association, Lawyer Francis Gabidon said that the late Justice Dr. Thompson contributed greatly to the jurisprudence and justice of the country with several books, articles and chapters written to his credit.
The ceremony was climaxed by the signing of the Book of Condolence in honour of the late Justice Dr. Thompson. Among the sympathizers were the Secretary to President, Dr. Julius Sandi; SLBA President Michaella Swallow; Deputy Minister of Justice; and Solicitor General Mohamed Lamin Tarawally.
Mensa mensae mensam. I could remember fully well the conjugation of this Latin word meaning table and the explanation of cases and usage given by Late Dr. Bankole Thompson As a young latin teacher at POW. Classic. RIP
May the soul of Justice Dr Rosolu Bankole Thompson rest in perfect peace. His high accomplishments are proof of why he was greatly admired by his peers and of how excellently he served our nation. His was a life well lived. And may his family find the peace and comfort it needs at this very difficult moment of his passing.
To the Family, and friends of Dr Rosolu Bankole Thompson, today we mourn the passing of a true son of the soil. We thank him for his services to our country, and the people of Sierra Leone. May his soul rest in peace. Amen.
Rest in peace Justice Thompson. You served humanity to the best And will of your maker. Your memories are stamped On the Good halls Of the country’s Justice system. God will grant you jannnah. R I P
Dearly beloved – ” No man is an Island,entire of itself; every man is a piece of the continent,
any man’s death reduces,diminishes me for I am involved in mankind; And therefore, never send to know for WHOM THE BELL TOLLS; It tolls for Thee.”( John Donne ) Indeed, everyone here on earth will have to embark on a journey of no return….Rest forever In Bliss and Perfect Peace Justice Dr Rosolu Bankole Thompson.