With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Adesina Ademola Ogunlana—a towering figure in law, activism, and humanitarian service. His loss has deeply affected not only his family but the countless lives he touched through his tireless commitment to justice, equality, and public service. More than a leader, Ogunlana was a man driven by a profound sense of duty to his country, the legal profession, and humanity at large
Ogunlana dedicated his life to the cause of freedom, not just in his country, but globally. He was a beacon of peace and harmony, impacting countless lives within our legal community. His commitment to justice and his tireless efforts to uphold fairness and equity left a profound legacy. His work touched every corner of our profession, and his example will be cherished and emulated by all who knew him.
Ogunlana served our branch with distinction, most notably as Chairman from 2016 to 2018. His contributions to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Ikeja Branch and to the legal profession at large will remain etched in our memory. He had a rare gift for bringing people together, fostering collaboration, and leading with humility and compassion.
Though his passing has created a void that will be hard to fill, we find comfort in the lasting impression he left on our hearts. His unwavering dedication to justice, his unmatched legal expertise, and his passion for fairness will continue to inspire us.
We extend our heartfelt prayers to his family, asking that God grants them the strength to bear this tremendous loss. Adieu, Ogunlana. You will be deeply missed.
Biography of Adesina Ademola Ogunlana
Born on July 27, 1964, in Ibadan, Adesina Ademola Ogunlana came from the esteemed Ogunlana family of Ile-Kure, Oja-Oba. His father, Daniel Oyewole, had a deep passion for education, while his mother, Deborah Adesanmi, was a strict disciplinarian who shaped his early life. He completed his secondary education at Ilora Baptist Grammar School, Oyo State, in 1981, and then pursued a degree in English at the University of Ife (now OAU) between 1981 and 1985, where he became known for his popular column “Junior on Sunday.”
After completing his NYSC in Kano (now Jigawa) State in 1986, Ogunlana stayed on as a secondary school teacher. In 1989, he gained admission to study law at Lagos State University (LASU), where his activism shone. Elected as the Legal Secretary of the LASU Students’ Union, his leadership in anti-military and pro-student protests led to his expulsion, which he successfully challenged in court, allowing him to return and complete his studies. He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1996.
Ogunlana began his legal career under Lawal Pedro SAN, before founding his own law firm, Winners Don’t Quit Chambers, in 2000. He also started publishing SQUIB, an anti-corruption magazine, which faced many challenges, including attacks and arrests, but never wavered in its mission to expose corruption.
Ogunlana’s contributions to the legal profession were immense. He held various positions within the NBA Ikeja Branch, including Welfare Secretary, General Secretary, Vice-Chairman, and Chairman. His leadership extended to the national stage, serving as Assistant Secretary and Secretary of the Local Organizing Committee for the NBA’s Annual General Conference.
A prolific writer, Ogunlana published several works, including Understanding the Secrets of Successful Lawyers (2000), F.R.A. Williams: The Life and Times of Nigeria’s Greatest Lawyer (2005), and G.O.K. Ajayi: The Life and Times of Nigeria’s Sweetest Lawyer (2014).
As Chairman of the Ikeja Branch, Ogunlana spearheaded the fight against the Land Use Charge imposed by former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, leading successful protests in 2018. He also led legal actions against the Chief Judge of Lagos State over unfair court costs and served as Lead Counsel for EndSARS petitioners during the Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Ogunlana was a devoted family man, a principled professional, and a courageous friend. His resilience and activism, even in the face of adversity, defined his legacy.
Adesina Ogunlana, affectionately known as “Serubawon” and “Mr. Squib,” was a true diamond whose brilliance shone brightly through the years. In death, his legacy continues to inspire, and he stands tall as a symbol of justice, dedication, and compassion.
A TRIBUTE IN LOVING MEMORY OF A LEGENDARY PUBLIC DEFENDER.
Compatriots,
Today, we come together not to say goodbye, but to honor a life well lived with profound purpose and dedication. Barrister Adesina Ogunlana, known fondly as Serubawon, was a beacon of hope and a relentless advocate for justice and human rights.
Late Barrister Ogunlana dedicated his life to defending the vulnerable and fighting for the rule of law. He was a fearless leader and a tireless champion of human rights of good governance. His legacy is etched in the hearts of all who stood by him and those who benefited from his unwavering commitment to truth and justice.
His journey was marked by exceptional courage and resilience.
During the oppressive days of the military junta, he stood resolute in his pursuit of justice, starting from his role as Legal Director of the Student’s Union Government at the famous Lagos State University.
His actions were a thorn in the side of authoritarian regimes, fighting tirelessly to reinstate Student’s Union leaders who were wrongfully expelled by university management back to school; he was the voice of the Students Union till date.
Late Barrister Ogunlana’s support extended beyond the courtroom and this was evident through his magazine- SQUIB where he held all judicial workers accountable and defended the very soul of our nation against tyranny and injustice.
One of his conspicuous activism was during the #EndSARS movement, where he stood alongside Nigeria’s youth, offering his legal expertise and unwavering support.
Late Barrister Adesina Ogunlana as Nigerian Bar Association Chairman, Ikeja Branch and his leadership forced the Lagos State Government to reverse its detrimental and obnoxious Land Use Charge in 2018; demonstrating his dynamic and selfless service to the society.
Late Serubawon’s favorite quote, “O lowo, o logun, oju re o tun pon, ki lo fe fi deruba omo ara aye?”—meaning, “You are not tough, nor man enough, what do you expect from the world if not oppression and intimidation?”—was not just a saying but a guiding principle of his life, inspiring many and becoming a popular phrase in social media skits.
He taught us to stand firm and be courageous in the face of adversity. His life was a testament to the impact one person can make, and his simplicity and refusal to amass material wealth were reflections of his true values.
As we celebrate his life today, let us draw inspiration from his legacy. Let us continue his works with the same passion, courage, and commitment to justice that defined his life.
Thank you, Barrister Adesina Ogunlana, for showing us what it means to stand firm for what is right. Though you are deeply missed, your spirit and legacy will continue to guide and inspire us.
Viva Serubawon!
Viva the Defender of the Rule of Law!
Viva Baba Squib!
Courtesy: Lagos State University Student’s Union Government (LASUSUG) Past and Present Union Leaders (1984 to Date) Wednesday, September 11, 2024.
In the annals of our nation’s political struggle, one name shines brightly with unwavering resolve and steadfast commitment to justice: Comrade Adesina Ogunlana. Today, we gather to pay tribute to a man whose tireless efforts for the oppressed and downtrodden will forever echo in the corridors of our collective memory.
Comrade Ogunlana was not just a barrister of law; he was a defender of the people. His advocacy transcended the courtroom, touching the lives of those who found themselves voiceless in the face of oppression. He stood tall, armed with an unyielding sense of integrity and an unparalleled ideology rooted in equity and justice.
In every march, every protest, and every rally, Comrade Ogunlana’s presence was a beacon of hope. His leadership was genuine, his intentions pure, and his dedication to the cause unwavering. He embodied the very essence of a comrade—a man of the people, for the people, and with the people.
As we bid farewell to this stalwart of justice and peace, we do so with heavy hearts but with immense gratitude. Good night, Comrade Adesina Ogunlana. Rest well, for your legacy of courage, integrity, and relentless advocacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
Rest in peace, Comrade.
By – Jide Adesina
Editor
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