The legal community and civic space in Nigeria were plunged into mourning on Wednesday with the devastating news of the passing of Adesina Ogunlana, one of the most resilient members of the legal profession.
Adesina Ogunlana, affectionately known as Serubawon—a Yoruba term meaning “scare them” or “frighten the oppressors”—has embarked on his final journey. This time, not to the courtroom to defend the helpless and oppressed, nor to the streets to protest against anti-people policies, but to the world beyond, the other side of mortality.
Just days after celebrating his 60th birthday with friends and colleagues in late July, Ogunlana, who was known for his pro-people stance on national issues, passed away. His career was marked by his participation in defining protests in Nigeria, from Occupy Nigeria in January 2012 to the 2020 #EndSARS rallies and the recent #EndBadGovernance protests. He also represented #EndSARS petitioners at the panel probing the Lekki Tollgate incident in Lagos.
A dynamic blend of activism and legal practice defined Ogunlana’s career, making him a formidable presence in the civic space whose absence will be deeply felt.
In a statement, Akorede Lawal, a spokesman for the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), expressed sadness over Ogunlana’s passing. Ogunlana, a former chairman of the Ikeja Branch of the NBA, led a significant protest against the 2018 increase in the Land Use Charge introduced by the Lagos State Government during his tenure from 2016 to 2018.
“At a time when citizens look to the legal profession for guidance, the loss of Adesina Ogunlana is monumental. He was an activist in every sense of the word, never shying away from standing firmly with the people,” Lawal said, noting Ogunlana’s participation in the Nationwide Hunger Protest in Lagos just last week.
Renowned for his commitment to the rule of law, effective administration of justice, and protection of human rights, Ogunlana will be sorely missed by the NBA and the legal profession. Lawal extended deep condolences to Ogunlana’s grieving family.
Friends and associates have taken to social media to pay tribute, sharing memories and celebrating the legendary exploits of Ogunlana, whose fighting spirit has inspired many in the civic space.