The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Adesina Ogunlana, former chairman of the Ikeja Branch of the NBA. Ogunlana, who led the NBA Ikeja Branch from 2016 to 2018, died on Tuesday.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by the National Executive Committee through National Publicity Secretary Akorede Lawal, the NBA described Ogunlana’s death as a significant loss. The statement highlighted that during Ogunlana’s tenure as Chairman, he spearheaded protests against the 2018 increase in the Land Use Charge by the Lagos State Government, marking a period of revival within the Bar.
The statement read,
“It is with great sadness that the National Executive Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association received the news of the passing of one of our distinguished members, Adesina Ogunlana, Esq. Mr. Ogunlana was a former chairman of the Ikeja Branch of the NBA.
“His leadership from 2016 to 2018 saw a renaissance within the Bar, notably leading the protest against the Land Use Charge hike by the Lagos State Government in 2018.
“In these times when the nation looks to principled members of the legal profession for guidance, Adesina Ogunlana’s death is a monumental loss. He was an activist in the truest sense, participating in the Nationwide Hunger Protest in Lagos just last week.
“As an advocate in the courtroom and publisher of Squib Magazine, Mr. Ogunlana, who recently celebrated his 60th birthday, was renowned for his dedication to the rule of law, justice, and human rights.
“The NBA and the legal profession will sorely miss Adesina Ogunlana, and his absence will be felt across Nigeria. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the NBA Ikeja Branch. Know that you are not alone in your grief; we share your sorrow and take solace in the legacy Adesina Ogunlana leaves behind. May Almighty God comfort us all.”