NBA: Akeredolu’s Advancement of Cause of Justice, Human Rights will Remain an Inspiration to Lawyers

Wale Igbintate

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mr. Yakubu Maikyau (SAN), has said the legacy of the late Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN) in advancing the cause of justice and human rights will remain an inspiration to lawyers in Nigeria

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Maikyau said this at the weekend when he led an NBA delegation on a condolence visit to Akeredolu’s family in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Akeredolu, who was a former NBA president, died of prostate cancer in Germany on December 27, 2023. His remains arrived in Nigeria on Friday.
Maikyau was accompanied on the visit by some officials of the NBA, including the General Secretary, Adesina Adegbite; the 3rd Vice President, Amanda Demechi-Asagba, and the Welfare Secretary, Chinyere Obasi.

The delegation also included the chairpersons of the Ibadan, Ikeja, Lagos, and Ikorodu branches of the association.
Maikyau, who signed a condolence register during the visit, said Akeredolu’s tireless dedication had left an indelible mark on the legal fraternity.

He paid tribute to the late Akeredolu, describing him as “one of the most influential and courageous presidents ever to lead the NBA.”
He prayed for solace and comfort for the bereaved family, colleagues, and friends of the departed leader.
“Governor Akeredolu’s legacy in advancing the cause of justice and human rights remains an inspiration for us all. His tireless dedication has left an indelible mark on the legal fraternity.

“We stand united in paying homage to a remarkable leader whose commitment to the rule of law will be remembered as a cornerstone of his impactful tenure,” he said.
The NBA’s delegation was received by Akeredolu’s widow, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and other members of the Akeredolu family, who expressed appreciation to the NBA for the visit at such a difficult time.

Governor Akeredolu’s tenure as the 24th NBA president from 2008 to 2010, was marked by an unwavering advocacy for respect for the rule of law, effective administration of justice, and the protection of human rights.
As governor, Akeredolu was renowned for his fearless calls for adherence to the rule of law, political fair play and commitment to security, which contributed to the establishment of the regional security network, codenamed Amotekun, across South-west states.