A TRIBUTE TO ADESINA OGUNLANA, ESQ.: THE LIFE OF A WARRIOR
Life is an intricate journey filled with moments of triumph, struggles, and the pursuit of justice. For some, this journey becomes a mission, an unwavering commitment to stand tall against oppression and defend those who cannot defend themselves. Adesina Ogunlana, Esq., was one such warrior—a man whose life was defined by his relentless fight for justice and the oppressed. His legacy is not merely a reflection of his achievements but a testament to the power of courage, integrity, and the indomitable human spirit.
Born into a world where justice is often overshadowed by power and corruption, Ogunlana’s journey was anything but ordinary. He rose from humble beginnings, discovering early on that his life would be marked by battles against injustice. Yet, despite the many troubles he encountered, he was never the accuser. Instead, he was the defender—the one who stood up for the oppressed and fought against a system that too often preyed on the weak. This realization fuelled his passion to become an “agbejoro”—a lawyer, a champion of justice.
My admiration for the legal profession was deeply rooted in my encounter with Ogunlana. After obtaining my diploma in law in 2006, I was introduced to him by my lecturer, Emmanuel Adeshina. Ogunlana was a fearless man, unafraid to confront constituted authorities when they erred. His presence in the courtroom was commanding; his voice, a roar that made even judges tremble. I recall a particular instance when he stormed out of court, objecting to a judge’s insult after the judge had arrived several hours late, showing blatant disregard for the time of other counsels. Ogunlana’s refusal to accept anything less than what was just, his unwillingness to lobby for favours, and his determination to succeed on merit alone left an indelible mark on me. He was sacred, bold, and courageous—an embodiment of the virtues that would later define my own legal career.
As I followed in his footsteps, I saw how his unwavering commitment to justice inspired confidence in the victims he represented. He became a beacon of hope for the oppressed, and an intimidation to the oppressors. Ogunlana’s influence on my life was profound. He was not just a mentor; he was a guiding force that shaped my ideals and principles. Under his mentorship, I learned to speak truth to power, to stand firm in my convictions, and to never back down in the face of adversity. Ogunlana faced the disciplinary committee of the Nigerian Bar Association, and, true to his nature, emerged victorious on appeal. He was represented by his own mentor, the late Chief G.O. Ajayi, a man who, like Ogunlana, was fearless and sharp in his critical thinking.
Ogunlana’s passion for justice extended beyond the courtroom. He was the publisher of Squib Magazine, a publication dedicated to exposing corruption within the judiciary. Despite the financial strain it placed on him—often borrowing money to keep the magazine running—he remained committed to the cause. His dedication to truth and transparency inspired me to start the first student magazine on campus at Lagos State University, Black and White Magazine. Through this platform, I sought to emulate Ogunlana’s dedication to justice and integrity, ensuring that the values he held dear would continue to resonate within the next generation.
Ogunlana’s impact on my life was not limited to the legal realm. He also profoundly influenced my political views. His law chambers were aptly named “Winners Don’t Quit,” a reflection of his resilient spirit and unyielding determination. Ogunlana’s strategic thinking and ability to think outside the box were instrumental in winning many of our cases. His final written addresses were often so powerful and emotionally charged that they moved judges to make decisions that defied expectations. He taught me that the essence of life is to live in a manner worthy of emulation—to live not just for oneself but for others. Ogunlana was content with his life, never envious of others, and always focused on his mission of justice.
In 2015, we faced one of our most harrowing experiences. Ogunlana was convinced that Professor Yemi Osinbajo was the rightful candidate for the office of Vice President of Nigeria. Our conviction led us to campaign tirelessly across the Southwest and even to the Federal Capital Territory. In Ekiti, a state dominated by the opposition party at the time, we faced the very real threat of death when we were attacked by thugs. Despite the danger, Ogunlana remained resolute. It was only after much persuasion that he agreed to leave the scene, but even then, his spirit remained unbroken. Later that night, we received a security warning from the DSS, prompting us to flee to Oshogbo under the cover of darkness. I drove through the night on a lonely road, with Ogunlana by my side, our resolve unwavering despite the peril.
In 2016, Ogunlana contested for the chairmanship of the branch. His victory was met with fierce opposition, and his administration was plagued with violence. Yet, through it all, Ogunlana remained true to his principles. He was not interested in building a bar centre; his focus was on building people and sustaining the practice of law. He demonstrated this commitment through numerous capacity-building programs and by standing up against the government when necessary. One such instance was when the Ambode administration increased the land use charge by 100%. Ogunlana led the bar in protest, ensuring that the voices of the people were heard.
Our relationship was not without its challenges. We eventually had a falling out over differences in ideology, particularly regarding his successor in office. This disagreement led to the loss of the office to a stranger who, as Ogunlana had predicted, caused division within the bar. Despite this, Ogunlana never surrendered. He continued to fight for justice, even when it seemed like the world was against him. His resilience was a source of inspiration to me, and I often found myself wondering what kind of man could possess such unwavering strength.
Ogunlana’s influence extended beyond his professional life. In moments of levity, he would often say, “Igun ni mi, tinbaku ni rewe, aye lopa mi, kooko lara ota le,” a Yoruba phrase meaning, “I am a vulture, I thrive where others fall; enemies will always try, but they cannot harm me.” These words encapsulated his indomitable spirit, a reminder that no matter what challenges he faced, he would always rise above them. Alas, even the strongest warriors must eventually fall. Ogunlana’s passing was a profound loss, one that left me feeling fatherless once again. He was the one person I could call at any hour in distress, knowing that he would rise up to help me. His death left a void that cannot be filled, an irreplaceable loss that still weighs heavily on my heart.
In the weeks leading up to his death, Ogunlana celebrated his 60th birthday. I watched the video post of the event, and it struck me that he had, in a sense, conducted his own funeral rites. He smiled and laughed as he listened to the attendees’ speeches, a man at peace with the life he had lived. My last moments with him were filled with hope as I shared my political ambitions beyond the bar. Ogunlana expressed his pride in me, and we took a picture together—his usual pose with his fist raised in defiance, a gesture I had never mirrored before. But that day, I did. It was a fitting tribute to the man who had taught me to stand tall in the face of adversity.
Ogunlana’s passing marked the end of an era. He was a warrior who fought tirelessly for justice, never backing down, even when the odds were against him. His defense of a pastor oppressed by the General Overseer of a church, a case that no other lawyer would have taken, was a testament to his commitment to standing up for the truth, regardless of the consequences. His willingness to carry the burdens of others, even when his own were overwhelming, was a reflection of his selflessness and dedication to justice.
As I reflect on his life, I am reminded of the inevitability of death—a debt we all must pay. Ogunlana knew this, yet he faced it with the same courage and determination that defined his life. He came, he saw, and he conquered. His legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those he inspired, and it is up to us to continue the fight for justice that he so passionately championed.
In his final words to me, Ogunlana expressed his hope that when his time came, there would be someone else to fight for the oppressed and stand for the truth, even if they stood alone. As I stand here today, I vow to continue that fight, to uphold the principles he held dear, and to ensure that his legacy of justice and courage endures.
Rest on, warrior. Adieu, Adesina Ogunlana, Esq. (Serubawon). The fight continues, and your spirit lives on in every act of justice, in every stand against oppression, and in every truth spoken in the face of power. The curtain falls, but your legacy remains—a guiding light for all who seek to live a life of purpose and integrity.
