Lagos, Nigeria: The legal community in Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the death of activist-lawyer Adesina Ogunlana, who recently marked his 60th birthday.
The world just lost a man popularly called “Serubawon,” which in colloquial Yoruba means ‘scare them’ or ‘frighten the oppressors.
It was because of this that Ogunlana was known for his undying effort in standing for the helpless and voiceless. He chaired the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Ikeja Branch, between 2016 and 2018. His activism aptly combined with his legal practice.
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Like he did in the court of law arguing zealously for his clients, Ogunlana bowed a few days to the birthday lecture held to celebrate his milestone birthday. His passage signals the close of an extraordinary journey largely marked by ceaseless fights against oppression and injustice.
Adesina Ogunlana and Activism in Nigeria.
Adesina Ogunlana left behind a legacy of dynamic activism for major protests that defined the civic experience of Nigeria. Major roles he played include the 2012 Occupy Nigeria protests, the 2020 #EndSARS rallies, and more recently, the #EndBadGovernance nationwide demonstrations.
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His role as counsel to #EndSARS petitioners at the panel investigating the Lekki Tollgate incident in Lagos further established his commitment to justice and human rights.
In a statement, Akorede Lawal said the NBA spokesman described the death of Ogunlana as quite tragic. He further added that Ogunlana played a dynamic role as the Chairman of the NBA Ikeja Branch and at the forefront of protests against the increase in Land Use Charge by the Lagos State Government in 2018.
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At this time, as citizens of this country look up to conscientious members of the legal profession for direction, his passage is a monumental loss; he was an activist in the exact sense of the word,” Lawal said. “Not one to shy away from standing firmly on the side of the people, Mr. Ogunlana actively participated in the Nationwide Hunger Protest here in Lagos last week.
He commended Ogunlana of his single-minded commitment to the rule of law, efficient dispensation of justice, and protection of human rights.
The NBA also placed a message of condolence before his bereaved family that his passing had left a vacuum that could never be filled in the legal and civil society at large.
Friends and associates have filled up social media with tributes, many of which narrated Ogunlana’s legendary exploits and his indomitable spirit.
This is his attitude toward justice and advocacy, which has left so strong a mark on many, driving home a mandate that will keep the fight burning in generations yet unborn for a society built on the tenets of justice and equity.
