- Born into relative obscurity, Nzioka’s journey to becoming a respected jurist was marked by her dedication, intellect, and commitment to upholding the principles of justice.
- Lady Justice Nzioka found herself thrust into the limelight when she presided over the murder case that captured the nation’s attention for six long years.
- Beyond her role in the courtroom, Justice Nzioka has been an advocate for the rights of the disadvantaged in society.
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka emerged as a prominent figure in the judicial landscape of Kenya, particularly gaining attention during the high-profile murder case involving businesswoman Monica Kimani, former Citizen TV news anchor Jacque Maribe, and Joseph Irungu alias Jowie.
Born into relative obscurity, Nzioka’s journey to becoming a respected jurist was marked by her dedication, intellect, and commitment to upholding the principles of justice.
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka’s Career
While specific details about Lady Justice Grace Nzioka’s early life and upbringing remain private, her legal career showcased a remarkable trajectory.
Graduating with top honors from a prestigious law school, Nzioka quickly gained recognition for her sharp legal acumen and dedication to the pursuit of justice.
Lady Justice Nzioka found herself thrust into the limelight when she presided over the murder case that captured the nation’s attention for six long years.
The trial involved Jacque Maribe and Joseph Irungu, with the former facing serious charges related to the tragic death of Monica Kimani.
Throughout the legal proceedings, Nzioka demonstrated a profound understanding of the law, earning widespread admiration for her poise, eloquence, and meticulous analysis of the evidence presented.
Her assurance that she had thoroughly examined all submissions and evidence, coupled with the declaration that she could read the judgment for six hours without a paper in her hand, showcased her unwavering commitment to ensuring a fair and just outcome.
Nzioka’s reading of the judgment became a focal point for observers, both in the courtroom and online.
Kenyans praised her for her articulate nature, composed demeanor, and the clarity with which she presented the complex legal aspects of the case. Social media buzzed with compliments, with many expressing their admiration for her captivating style.
Her involvement in high-profile cases, such as the Ksh1.5 billion case involving former Cabinet Secretary Raphael Tuju, showcased her dedication to justice.
In a display of integrity, she recused herself from the Tuju case, citing an inability to proceed and directing that the matter be mentioned before the presiding judge of the Commercial Division.
Beyond her role in the courtroom, Justice Nzioka has been an advocate for the rights of the disadvantaged in society.
In November 2023, she emphasized the need for a child protection unit at various stations to address the backlog of minor cases.
Acknowledging the significant workload, she highlighted that the Judiciary was actively working to reduce the backlog, demonstrating her commitment to ensuring justice for all, especially the most vulnerable in society.
In September 2022, Chief Justice Martha Koome made changes, relocating Justice Nzioka from Nairobi to the High Court in Naivasha.
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka’s Husband
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka is married to Mr. Jeremiah Kyeva.
Lady Justice Grace Nzioka’s husband is a brother to Prof Gideon Nyamasyo, a retired environmental department lecturer at the University of Nairobi.
In 2014, Prof Nyamasyo made headlines after he teamed up with his brother Mr. Kyeva who is Justice Grace Nzioka’s husband, Ms Agnes Jessie Mueni, a retired diplomat, and Ms Evelyn Mwikali, a teacher, in suing their 86-year-old mother, Ms Dorcas Katumbi Ernest over the estate of their late father.
Robbery Victim
In 2013, the judge experienced a harrowing incident when she became the victim of a robbery and kidnapping at her Karen home in Nairobi.
The unfortunate event unfolded as Justice Nzioka was driving into her compound. Five armed men confronted her, leading to her abduction.
The assailants forced their way into her house, where they stole various items, including documents, a laptop, a television set, and other electronics.
During the ordeal, Justice Nzioka and her husband were taken hostage, and the armed men drove them to the Dagoretti area, withdrawing over Ksh40,000 from their ATM accounts.
Ultimately, the judge and her husband were abandoned in the Kangemi area. The incident raised questions about the judge’s security, as it was revealed that her bodyguards were unarmed at the time.
Investigators sought to determine the motive behind the attack and whether it was connected to her work.
At that time, Justice Nzioka chaired a commission investigating the Tana River clashes, a significant and sensitive matter that had claimed numerous lives and displaced thousands of people.