Our attention has been drawn to an article authored by Mr. Saraf Ibrahim titled “OSUN LG CRISIS: KUNLE ADEGOKE IS MAKING A TERRIBLE MESS OF THE LEGAL PROFESSION”. Ordinarily, we would have ignored such a piece, as it is laden with political undertones and misapprehensions of law. However, in order not to mislead the unsuspecting public, it has become necessary to clarify a few points.
First, it must be stated emphatically that Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN (K-Rad), is a lawyer of impeccable standing, whose contributions to the advancement of justice and the legal profession are well acknowledged across Nigeria. His interventions in the Osun Local Government matter were guided by law, constitutionalism, and professional responsibility, not political expediency as mischievously alleged.
Second, it is unfortunate that Mr. Ibrahim deliberately misrepresented the legal position on the ongoing local government issues in Osun State. The communication of Mr. Adegoke to the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation was a legal opinion (an exercise recognised in law as part of counsel’s professional duty). A legal opinion does not become “foul of logic” simply because it does not align with the political narrative of the Osun State Government or its aides.
Third, contrary to the insinuations in Mr. Ibrahim’s article, Mr. Adegoke has never denigrated the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). As a respected Senior Advocate, he holds the NBA in the highest regard, but respect for an institution does not translate into uncritical acceptance of its views, especially where genuine legal debate exists. The strength of the legal profession lies in the diversity of reasoned opinions, not in blind uniformity.
Fourth, Mr. Ibrahim’s attempt to twist judicial pronouncements to suit political rhetoric is regrettable. The February 22, 2025 local government elections and the related court decisions remain contested matters of law. To present them as settled and beyond professional scrutiny betrays either ignorance of due process or a willful disregard for it. Mr. Adegoke, SAN, has always maintained that the sanctity of court decisions must be respected until set aside by superior courts, a principle he has consistently upheld in and out of court.
Finally, we advise Mr. Ibrahim and others who comment on sensitive constitutional matters to exercise restraint, avoid name-calling, and respect the right of legal practitioners to hold and express professional opinions. Public discourse is enriched, not diminished, when issues are debated on the strength of law and logic rather than political invective.
Mr. Kunle Adegoke, SAN, remains committed to the rule of law, the independence of the legal profession, and the sanctity of the Constitution. No amount of propaganda can diminish his professional integrity.
Signed:
John Ogunlela
For: K-Rad Media Team