Tributes have poured in following the death of veteran advocate and former academic Adv Ntakuseni Patrick “Ace” Ndou (71), who died on 14 July after a long illness. He will be laid to rest on Saturday, 25 July, at Mulenzhe (Ha Piet Booi).
Family spokesperson Oriel Vele described Ndou as a respected legal practitioner, mentor and servant leader who dedicated his life to promoting justice and developing young lawyers. He said Ndou was known for his integrity, generosity and humility, and believed the law should always serve people fairly and with dignity.
Away from the courtroom, Ndou was a keen sportsman who earned the nickname “Ace” through his sporting achievements. He enjoyed travelling, watching sport and listening to music, and was remembered for his outspoken nature, sense of humour and willingness to help others.
Born on 27 April 1955 at Lunungwi village in the former Venda, Ndou was raised in Tshiawelo, Johannesburg. After matriculating at Tshivhase High School, he obtained a B Proc degree from the University of the North (Turfloop) in 1980, graduating as the top final-year student. He later completed an LLB at the University of the Witwatersrand in 1983, again graduating at the top of his class.
In 1988, he received a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, where he obtained a master’s degree in law, specialising in labour law.
Ndou joined the University of Venda in 1984 as its first black law lecturer. He was later promoted to senior lecturer and head of the Department of Mercantile Law. In the same year, he was admitted as an advocate of the High Court of South Africa.
In 1995, he was appointed a commissioner on the Ralushai Commission of Inquiry into Witchcraft Violence and Ritual Murders in the then Northern Province.
He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and siblings.