The legal fraternity of Sierra Leone has lost one of its finest pillars, Emmanuel Ekundayo Constant Shears-Moses Esq., a distinguished scholar, dedicated lecturer, and former Head of the Law Department at Fourah Bay College. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy continues to resonate within the walls of legal education and practice in Sierra Leone.
A Mentor and Leader in Legal Education
Shears-Moses served as Head of the Law Department for nearly six years, shaping the next generation of Sierra Leonean lawyers with his rigorous standards and deep commitment to the law. His tenure saw substantial improvements to the curriculum, with the introduction of new elective modules such as Arbitration Law, International Human Rights Law, and Intellectual Property Law. He was passionate about raising the bar for legal education, and his strict yet fair approach earned him both respect and admiration from his students and colleagues alike.
For many, he was more than just a lecturer. He was a mentor who pushed his students to excellence, instilling in them the discipline and integrity that he embodied throughout his own illustrious career. His classroom was a place where humor and rigor intertwined, creating an environment where students were not only challenged but inspired.
A Life of Service to Justice
Shears-Moses’ contribution extended far beyond the classroom. Called to the Bar in 1977 after earning his degree from the University of London, he returned home to serve his country, initially as a Magistrate in Bo and Pujehun Districts. His legal career was marked by a commitment to justice, which earned him the honor of chairing multiple commissions of inquiry, most notably the Shears-Moses Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of the Central Prisons in 2001.
As President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association from 1999 to 2001, Shears-Moses played a pivotal role in advocating for legal aid in the country, a milestone that has since transformed access to justice for many Sierra Leoneans. His efforts were instrumental in resuscitating the publication of law reports, a critical resource for legal practitioners and students alike. His tenure also coincided with key discussions around the establishment of the Sierra Leone Special Court, demonstrating his influence on the development of the country’s legal landscape.
A Legacy of Integrity and Discipline
Shears-Moses was known for his unwavering principles, discipline, and meticulous attention to detail. These traits not only made him a respected figure in the legal community but also a guiding force for those who had the privilege of learning from him. His former students often recall his signature phrases, such as, “The law has to be steady in one direction,” a reflection of his belief in the importance of consistency in legal practice.
Beyond his professional life, Shears-Moses was a man of deep faith and humility, traits that endeared him to many. His ability to balance seriousness with lighthearted humor left a lasting impression on all who encountered him. His disciplined nature and high expectations were tempered by a genuine care for his students’ growth and success.
A Lasting Impact
Emmanuel Shears-Moses leaves behind a lasting legacy, not only in the legal profession but
also in the lives of those he mentored and taught. His contributions to legal education, his leadership in the Sierra Leone Bar Association, and his dedication to justice will be remembered for generations to come.
As the legal community mourns his passing, we also celebrate the indelible mark he has left on the profession and the country. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory continue to inspire the pursuit of excellence, integrity, and justice in Sierra Leone.