The Brooklyn community is mourning the loss of Judge Babatunde Akowe, a distinguished jurist, advocate, and pillar of Bedford-Stuyvesant, whose passing marks a profound loss for the borough. Tributes from colleagues, public officials, and community members highlight his unwavering commitment to justice, principle, and the people he served.
Councilmember Chi Ossé expressed her sorrow, noting that while she and Akowe did not always agree, their interactions were rooted in mutual respect. “He moved with principle, not convenience,” Ossé said. “In a world where that is increasingly rare, he held fast to his values. His election to the bench was more than a milestone; it was a celebration of Black excellence.”
Judge Akowe’s influence extended far beyond the courtroom. He was widely recognized for his hands-on community engagement, including mentoring youth, distributing supplies on MLK Day, and creating pathways of opportunity for those in need. Farah Louis, a longtime friend and collaborator, remembered him as “an inspiration and a dedicated public servant committed to justice and service… [he] embodied the spirit of servant leadership, always putting others first.”
His dedication to the law was matched by his devotion to family. He is survived by his wife, Lauren, and their daughters, Amara and Adia, who were frequently cited by friends as the center of his life. Shemene Monique Minter called him “a great son, husband, father, lawyer, community leader, and friend… gone too soon.”
Akowe’s legacy resonates in both public and private spheres. As a judge, he carried the history and pride of Brooklyn’s Black community into the courtroom. As a mentor and volunteer, he created tangible opportunities and support networks for residents across Bedford-Stuyvesant and beyond. His life exemplified the principle that leadership is measured not only by office held but by the lives uplifted through service.
The Brooklyn community, colleagues, and leaders continue to honor his memory by pledging to advance the causes he championed: equity, justice, and community building. His impact will endure in the work of those he inspired, ensuring that his dedication and vision live on.
