Oh! Serubawon is gone.
Adesina Ogunlana, Esq.—a man who lived for a greater cause.
Serubawon is a Yoruba word that literally means “instill fear in them.” It can be used to mean “the one whom they fear.” But indeed, those who know Mr. Ogunlana know that there’s nothing to be feared about him other than the fact that he himself was fearless. He was full of love.
Cowards die many times before their death. Mr. Ogunlana wasn’t a coward. He was feared because he was fearless.
I served as Chairman of the Young Lawyers Forum (YLF) when he was Chairman of the NBA Ikeja Branch. He was a true democrat. He ensured we came in through an election by the YLF. We were indeed the first elected officers of the YLF. Mr Ogunlana allowed us shine, he set the stage and gave it to us. Our accomplishments were his pride and joy.
He did not need to command or beg for our respect, loyalty, and admiration; he earned it massively. It was as though we were his appointees. Since then till now, I have seen very few leaders as truly selfless and secure as Mr. Ogunlana. He was very secure in his person and could not be intimidated.
He made me know that money was a small thing to give, no matter the amount. He was a big giver—a giver of time, essence, succor, and confidence. Mr. Ogunlana gave what money can’t buy and then garnished it with what money can buy.
He taught me the “art of showing up.” Mr. Ogunlana was always there for people close to him and for people he believed needed him. He was not an elitist or classist. He would put his life on the line over and over for causes and people. Little did I know that even those wars he fought in wouldn’t consume him.
Serubawon, I cut my teeth in NBA politics under your tutelage. We had several one-on-ones. I learned far more from you than I ever told you. I’m glad I was still able to share some of them with you on the eve of the last NBA elections. I remember thanking you for remaining consistent all these years. I told you that I wasn’t sure how long many people of this time would last, especially because of selfishness, and how badly the NBA and indeed Nigeria needed more people with your kind of heart.
I can go on and on. This one hits hard. It hurts deep. Just a while ago, we buried your bosom friend Mr. Farounbi, and we haven’t come through it, and now you too, just after we celebrated your 60th.
Hmmmmmm… we will not mourn; we won’t cry; we won’t be saddened. Yours was a life of meaning. Adesina Ogunlana Lived.
May God console me, console us, and may a greater you rise.
Sleep well! You were always working and fighting- your deserved rest has finally come.
Charles Ajiboye, Esq. (KSM)
FICMC, FCAI, ACIS
Executive Partner, The Penthouse Solicitors
National Assistant Publicity Secretary, NBA
