Becoming a lawyer was Omotosho Oluwagbemisola’s childhood dream. Not even a life-threatening illness that left her with a hearing impediment could stop her. Oluwagbemisola, from Ekiti State and a 2020 alumnus of the Joseph Ayo Babalola University, shared her law story with ROBERT EGBE.
My name is Omotosho Oluwagbemisola. I am from Gbonyin Local Government Area (LGA) of Ekiti State. I attended Auntie Bisi Nursery & Primary School, Ugbe Akoko, Ondo State. It is both a day and boarding school. I was a boarder in primary school. Immediately after I was through with primary education, I got admission to Ekiti Anglican Diocesan High School, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. I attended the Joseph Ayo Babalola University, Ikeji Arakeji, Osun State, graduating from the Faculty of Law on January 17, 2020.
Memorable secondary school experience
I had a lot of memorable experiences in junior and senior classes, however, I won’t be able to share all, but one of them.
In 2012, when I was about to move to my final class in secondary school, there was an annual programme organised by the National Model United Nations (NIMUN). It draws participants from more than 130 member states who address current global issues, resolutions of conflict and a host of other issues affecting nations. My school was one of those listed for it and it was my set’s turn to attend the programme. I never believed that I would be among the few students that would be nominated from my school, but I was and, on getting there, I was made a Delegate to Jordan. We addressed global issues affecting Jordan and a lot more. This programme gave me opportunities to meet new faces, local and international. It also provided me with a forum to hone my skills in diplomacy, negotiation, writing and research, etc. There were other countries that other students were also delegates to. It was a memorable experience that I can never forget, although it was stressful (laughs).
Hearing impediment
I have a hearing impediment. I wasn’t born with it and I am of the belief that I am not living with it forever. It happened 15 years ago and it was the result of a sickness that almost took my life. I am thankful to my creator that I am a living being, among the living.
Actually, I can’t specify the area to which the sickness belongs. It started so suddenly. However, my hearing impairment isn’t an impediment to me; rather I have turned it to my advantage. I saw it as a challenge, which is part of life; it has favoured me a lot even in the face of criticisms. It has been more of a blessing than a curse. I don’t look like one with any challenge because I am far above it. Whatever challenge we face in life, we must always learn from it and take it to God in prayer in order for us to discover its purpose, because, in our pains, there is a purpose. In every challenge, there is a purpose. Therefore, see your trials today not as a punishment but as something that will be advantageous to you when you handle it well.
Childhood dreams
What inspired me to study law? It was childhood dreams, dreams accompanied by challenges and battles. If I had a second chance to come into this world, I would choose law all over again.
God made studying Law easy
I knew studying Law at the university wasn’t something one should joke with. I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task, but with God, all things were made easy and possible.
My challenges weren’t that many though. I had academic challenges at first, but with time I was able to cope right from my first semester. It wasn’t easy but I’m thankful to God it is over. With respect to grades, I had an outstanding performance.
I had my timetable prepared right in my mind and not written in a book, inclusive of my plans for Law School; I wrote everything on my mind. I read for 16 hours or more at times. But close to the Bar finals, I spent basically the entire 24hrs basically on my academic work. I kept to my reading deadlines. I bought the 2009-2020 Bar finals past questions, treated some from home and others at the Law School. I revised them many times before the Bar finals. Again, I was the type of student who loved to read alone because reading in the midst of people made me uncomfortable and sometimes I did not even understand what I was reading. So, reading alone and following my reading plans helped me a lot at Law School. Also, I loved asking questions on a given topic before I concluded my work on that topic; this gave me the opportunity to know places where I had weaknesses and strengths. I sought answers to questions from my friends and lecturers, while at other times I personally gave myself test questions to assess my performance. All of this helped me scale through Law School. I had time for recreation, but not all the time. Just randomly and what I did was just to move about the school environment or go out and get myself some stuff.
Call to Bar ceremony
It was a low key Call to Bar celebration party. That was how I just wanted it based on my plans.
First court appearance
My first court appearance was at the Federal High Court, Abuja. It was a nice experience though and I was glad to appear as a junior counsel on behalf of the Respondent.
How I cope in court
My hearing impediment is in both ears. I started using a hearing aid recently, but after I went for another check up, I was told to stop using it till further notice. So, since then I haven’t used the hearing aid. Nevertheless, I have been coping with God’s help.
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In the courtroom, I have someone beside me who can help me along. I might not speak during proceedings; someone else often does that on my behalf. But if I have questions I will raise it myself and the person helping me will take down what is said.
I am able to understand what is being said through reasoning and research, coupled with my knowledge of law practice.
Law School grading system
Law School isn’t a university. This is what many Law School students or aspirants to the Law School weren’t aware of until they had written their exams. The earlier you are aware of the Law School grading system, the earlier you will know how to do your work.
My advice to those who have complaints is that even if they are told the grading system of the Nigerian Law School will be changed, they shouldn’t rely on that. Rather they should work smart on their goals. They should never allow the grading system to scare them; rather it should encourage them to put more effort into their academics. Although the grading system discourages many students and this has led to an outpour of complaints, those going to law school this forthcoming session, whatever the school grading system might be, it should encourage them to work harder and not discourage them. Focus on your goals!
Wig and gown
I have positive thoughts on the wig and gown. I don’t and will never support the notion that it should be scrapped. The wig and gown are used in courtrooms; this is why it is called (lawyer’s robes). It serves as an inspiration for the young student to study.
Things that need a change in the justice system
Things I don’t like about the justice system are delay in justice administration, abuse of power, no respect for the rule of law. Today, impunity is used in place of law. The judiciary should be independent; this would ensure its effectiveness.
Marrying a lawyer?
Yes, God willing. I don’t wish to write much, because talking about marriage in this area is always the will of God.