New York State Civil Court Judge | Public Servant | Legal Educator | Advocate for Equity
The Brooklyn community, the legal profession, and countless individuals whose lives he touched are mourning the passing of the Honorable Babatunde I. Akowe, a New York State Civil Court Judge who devoted his life to service, justice, and the empowerment of others. His transition leaves a profound void in the hearts of family, colleagues, fraternity brothers, students, and friends who knew him not only as a judge, but as a leader, a mentor, and a man of extraordinary integrity.
Born and raised in Crown Heights, Judge Akowe was a lifelong Brooklynite whose commitment to uplifting underserved communities was woven into every chapter of his life. He believed deeply that the law could be a tool for fairness—and he worked tirelessly to ensure it was. His professional journey included service in the District Attorney’s Office and the New York City Council, where he approached every legal, regulatory, and human rights challenge with empathy, strategy, and a steadfast sense of justice. As a Judge in Kings County’s Second Municipal Court District, he earned the respect of all who appeared before him by leading with fairness, clarity, and compassion.
Education was one of his greatest passions. A proud alumnus of Lincoln University (PA), Temple University (where he graduated magna cum laude), John Jay College, and Thurgood Marshall School of Law, Judge Akowe remained closely connected to academic life. As an adjunct professor at Lincoln University, he guided and inspired students to understand the law not just as a profession, but as a responsibility to one’s community.
His commitment to leadership and mentorship extended beyond the courtroom and classroom. He was a dedicated member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., CORO Leadership New York, and 100 Black Men of New York—organizations through which he championed civic engagement, justice reform, and the development of future leaders.
Yet, for all of his public achievements, Judge Akowe’s greatest joys were at home. He shared a deep and abiding love with his wife, Lauren, and was a devoted father to their two daughters, Adia and Amara. To them, he was not just a judge or a leader—he was a source of strength, humor, wisdom, and unconditional love. He was also a cherished son, brother, and anchor to his extended family.
His family shared:
“It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the transition of our beloved Babatunde. His legacy of kindness, integrity, leadership, and service will forever live in our hearts. We ask for continued prayers for his wife Lauren, their daughters, and our entire family.”
The Lincoln University Alumni Association remembers him as a leader who embodied excellence, scholarship, and service. They wrote:
“Brother Judge Akowe was a source of pride and inspiration. His legacy will continue to guide the Lincoln family and all who knew him.”
A Tribute to Judge Akowe’s Light
To know Babatunde was to witness quiet strength in motion. He did not need to raise his voice to command a room, nor did he need to declare his values—they were evident in his actions. He listened. He thought deeply. He treated every person with dignity. He believed in progress—not as a concept, but as a duty.
He lifted others not for attention or praise, but because uplifting others was simply who he was.
His legacy lives in the students he mentored, the communities he championed, the cases he judged with fairness and humanity, and the young leaders he encouraged to walk boldly in purpose. It lives in his daughters, who will carry his wisdom. It lives in every life he touched—one conversation, one lesson, one act of kindness at a time.
Those who had the honor of knowing him will continue the work he began, not in sorrow alone, but in gratitude for the example he set:
Lead with integrity.
Serve with humility.
Love with your whole heart.
Details regarding final arrangements will be shared in the coming days.
Rest in Power, Judge Akowe.
Your work, your wisdom, and your light continue.
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