Deji Adeyanju’s love for law was shaped after experiencing various forms of injustice, arrests, persecution and unlawful detention for standing up for justice for the people. He tells ELIZABETH EZE that by studying law, he has acquired legal expertise, analytical mind and capabilities to identify and challenge injustice
My name is Deji Adeyanju. I was born in Kabba in Kabba Bunu LGA but a native of Ayere, a town located in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State, North-Central, Nigeria. I was born into a large, extended family. My parents, Chief Adeyanju and Mrs. Mary Adeyanju, are well-respected members of the Kabba and Ayere community. I was raised with a strong Christian, family, and traditional values. Growing up in Kabba, I was immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Okun people. I learned the local language and customs from an early age. This upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for my ethnic identity and the importance of preserving cultural legacies. I obtained my first school leaving certificate from Kajola Primary School in Kabba. I then proceeded to Kaduna Capital School in Kaduna, where I completed my secondary education and obtained my Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE).
Pursuing further studies, I gained admission to Bayero University, to study Mass Communication. Subsequently, I enrolled at Baze University to study Law, graduating with a First Class honors degree.
While awaiting law school, I enrolled for a Master’s degree in Law from the same institution, Baze University.
In additionally, I hold a certificate in Management Studies from Albion College in London.
Working experience?
After completing my primary and secondary education, I moved to Abuja, the Federal Capital to pursue career opportunities. I currently reside in Abuja, where I work as a Principal Partners in one of the fastest growing Law firm, Deji Adeyanju and Partners. Although I live and work in the city, I maintain strong ties with my hometown and often return to Kabba and Ayere to visit family and friends.
What are the values dear to heart?
Throughout my life, I have strived to uphold the values of honesty, hard work, and service that were instilled in me from a young age. I believe that my background and upbringing have shaped me into the person I am today, and I am proud to represent the rich cultural heritage of Okun people.
Why law ?
My interest in the field of law began after experiencing various forms of injustice, arrests, persecution and unlawful detention just for standing up for the people. Because I started activism at a very young age of 16 years at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, I became exposed to very senior comrades in the struggle, and this led to several arrests and detention by the security agencies. I recall that my first arrest was almost about 29 years ago. Over the last one and a half decades, I witnessed many Nigerians languishing in jail for misdemeanor offences and interacted with thousands of citizens awaiting trial in several prisons or detention facilities I was detained. These experiences sparked a deep sense of frustration and a desire to better understand the legal system and how it could be used to address injustices.
Through these challenges, my passion for advocacy and standing up for the rights of myself and others grew stronger. I became determined to learn more about the law, its mechanisms, and how it could be wielded to protect the vulnerable and ensure fair and equitable treatment for all. This drove me to pursue legal education, as I recognized the power of the law to enact positive change and safeguard the fundamental rights and liberties of people.
As an active citizen in a badly governed nation where corruption and injustice is almost a national policy, i have experienced issues such as discrimination, unequal access to resources, unfair disciplinary procedures, or other systemic biases which every citizen is a victim of. These first hand experiences of injustice fueled my desire to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective advocate, capable of navigating the legal system to defend the rights of myself and others who may find themselves in similar situations of vulnerability or marginalization.
By studying law, I have acquired the legal expertise and analytical capabilities to identify, challenge, and address injustice. My goal is to leverage on the instrumentality of law as a tool for social empowerment, to amplify the voices of the voiceless, and to work towards a more equitable and just society. The passion for advocacy that emerged from my personal experiences ultimately became a driving force that propelled me to pursue a legal education and a career in the legal field.
What is your area of specialisation in law and why?
As a lawyer, I am particularly drawn to the field of litigation and due to the unique opportunity it provides to advocate for the rights and interests of the disadvantaged and marginalized members of society. The courtroom setting offers a powerful platform to shine a light on injustice and to fight on behalf of those who may not have the means or resources to defend themselves.
Litigation appeals to me because it allows me to be a voice for the voiceless – to take on cases where individuals or communities have been wronged and to leverage the legal system to seek justice and rectification. There is a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment in using my legal expertise to empower the disempowered and to challenge systematic inequalities.
At the same time, I recognize that the practice of law encompasses a diverse range of specialties, each with its own unique complexities and opportunities. While litigation is a particular area of interest, I also maintain special interest in other critical domains such as human rights, arbitration, oil and gas, finance, etc.
This multifaceted approach will allow me to cater to a wider clientele and to tackle a broader spectrum of legal challenges. By having a diversified portfolio of practice areas, i can leverage synergies and cross-pollinate expertise to provide comprehensive and tailored solutions to clients.
Where and how did you develop passion for litigation?
Ultimately, my passion for litigation stems from a deep-seated commitment to using the law as a tool for empowerment and social change. However, I recognize the value in maintaining a diverse and well-rounded legal practice that can tackle a wide range of challenges and deliver comprehensive solutions to our clients.
My motivation for this work is rooted in a deep commitment to social justice and advocating for the underserved. I am driven by the fundamental belief that all people deserve access to quality legal representation, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
How do you care for the less privileged in the course of practice?
Too often, those who lack the means to afford a lawyer are effectively silenced and denied their rightful access to the justice system.
By providing pro bono legal services, I aim to be a voice for the voiceless. To empower marginalized individuals and communities who have historically been overlooked or oppressed. These are the people who need competent legal counsel the most, yet face the greatest barriers to obtaining it. My goal is to help bridge that gap and ensure their rights and interests are protected.
Beyond just representing clients, I also hope to contribute to the broader vision of a truly equitable society in Nigeria. A country where everyone, regardless of their social or economic status, has an equal chance to thrive and succeed. Where the playing field is level, and the system works for all citizens, not just the privileged few.
By advocating for legal reforms, challenging unjust policies, and dismantling systematic barriers, I want to be part of the movement to create a Nigeria where justice, opportunity, and human dignity are available to all. It is a lofty aspiration, but one that I am committed to pursuing with passion and determination.
Aside being a rights activist. what other things motivated you to become a lawyer?
Like I said earlier, the driving force behind my work is a deep passion to give voice to the voiceless and fight for a country that works for all people regardless of their background or circumstances. This is rooted in a fundamental belief that everyone deserves to be heard and to have access to the opportunities and resources they need to thrive.
Too often, marginalized and underrepresented communities, whether defined by socioeconomic status, disability, or other factors, face systemic barriers that prevent them from having an equal seat at the table. Their perspectives, struggles, and aspirations can get drowned out or ignored altogether. This is not only unjust, but it deprives society of the rich diversity of ideas, experiences, and solutions that these communities can contribute.
By elevating the voices of the voiceless, we can begin to dismantle these barriers and create a more inclusive, equitable, and just society.
What was Law School like?
I did not receive any individual awards or honors. My aim in studying law was not to seek personal recognition or accolades, but rather to learn the fundamental principles and practical applications of the legal system. My primary motivation was to gain a deep understanding of the law so that I could apply that knowledge to make a positive impact on people’s lives.
So, how do you see the study of law?
The study of law is a rigorous and multifaceted discipline that covers a wide range of topics, from civil litigation, criminal litigation, professional ethics, property law and corporate law practice. As I delved into these various areas, I was driven by a desire to acquire a comprehensive grasp of the legal framework that governs our society. My goal was not merely to accumulate theoretical knowledge, but to develop the skills and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal system and use it as a tool for social good.
Rather than focusing on personal achievements or awards, I was more interested in how I could leverage my legal education to address real-world issues and improve the lives of the people.
Are lawyers liars?
It is inaccurate to say lawyers are “liars.” This characterization is unfair. Lawyers do not simply fabricate falsehoods or engage in deception. Rather, they apply logical reasoning, sound argumentation, and a thorough understanding of the law to zealously advocate for their clients.
The adversarial nature of the legal system necessitates that each side makes the strongest possible case. This does not mean lawyers are lying, but rather, they are rigorously applying the instrumentality of the law to defend their client’s interests and rights. Good lawyers understand that their duty is not to mislead, but to present the facts, laws, and precedents in a way that supports their client’s position.
What was your formula in scaling through law school?
Devotion, dedication and sheer determination to be called to the largest Bar in Africa.
Does your profession as a lawyer and human right activist affect your social lifestyle? Do people expect so much from you ?
As a modern professional, I’m often expected to perform at a high level in my career while also fulfilling my responsibilities at home. It’s a constant juggling act, but one that I take very seriously. My work-life balance is not something I take lightly.
On the professional front, the demands can be relentless. Deadlines, client expectations, ambitious projects – the list goes on. It’s easy to get swept up in the frenetic pace and lose sight of the bigger picture. However, I’ve learned that sustainable success requires more than just around-the-clock grind. It requires strategic prioritization, clear communication of boundaries, and a commitment to self-care
I’ve found that proactively managing my workload, learning to say “no” when necessary, and building in regular breaks are all crucial to maintaining balance. It’s about working smarter, not just harder. And when I do need to put in long hours, I make sure to compensate with quality time for myself and my loved ones.
On the personal side, my family is the foundation upon which everything else is built. They provide the support, perspective, and joy that keeps me grounded. But nurturing those relationships takes conscious effort – date nights, family dinners, quality time together. It’s not always easy to carve out that space, but I know it’s important for my wellbeing and the wellbeing of my family.
The recent Supreme Court judgement autonomy what’s your opinion about that.?
The recent Supreme court ruling granting fiscal autonomy to local government authorities (LGAs) is a welcome development. This landmark judgement is a major victory for those who have long been advocating for the restructuring and devolution of power in the country. In a nutshell, the Supreme court’s decision to grant fiscal autonomy to LGAs represents a significant step towards a more decentralized, responsive, and participatory governance system. While there may be implementation challenges ahead, this landmark judgement holds the promise of bringing government and development closer to the people, which is a crucial objective for any democracy.
A SAN has called for the decentralization of the judicial system, He said what we have now is quasi Unitary in nature. Do you agree with him?
The centralization of our judicial system may streamline judicial procedures and ensure uniformity in the application of laws across the country; however, Nigeria’s federal structure requires a balance between central control and state autonomy. The quasi-unitary system that we currently operate allows states to handle local legal matters and cultural issues while adhering to federal laws.
Although centralization might facilitate the speedy resolution of court cases and standardize how laws are applied, it may still risk reducing the responsiveness of the judiciary to local needs and concerns. It is essential to preserve the independence of state judiciaries and their ability to interpret laws in ways that reflect regional diversity and local realities.
Therefore, while recognizing the potential benefits of centralization in promoting efficiency and consistency, any reforms being made must carefully consider the federal principles enshrined in Nigeria’s Constitution. Striking a balance between centralization and decentralization ensures that the judiciary remains responsive, fair, and accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of their geographical location.
Should state house of Assembly have a say in the appointment of judges?
In Nigeria, the appointment of judges is a critical process that affects the judiciary’s independence, fairness, and public confidence in the legal system. State Houses of Assembly play a crucial role in this process as their involvement ensures regional representation and local understanding in judicial decision-making, reflecting the diverse legal landscape across the country.
The participation of State Houses of Assembly in judicial appointments ensures regional representation and local understanding in Nigeria’s judiciary. Each state in Nigeria has its unique legal context and challenges, which require judges to possess a deep understanding of local laws, customs, and societal norms. By ratifying appointments, State Houses of Assembly contribute to the governance of the judiciary, ensuring that judges appointed are knowledgeable about and responsive to the legal needs and issues specific to their respective states. This process enhances the judiciary’s ability to deliver fair and contextually relevant judgments, thereby promoting justice and legal certainty across diverse regions of the country.
The involvement of State Houses of Assembly in judicial appointments is crucial for upholding true federalism in Nigeria. This process not only strengthens the integrity of judicial decisions but also safeguards the autonomy of state governments from undue centralization. By maintaining transparency and accountability in the appointment process, Nigeria can foster a judiciary that respects and responds to the unique legal dynamics of each state, thereby promoting justice and fairness under the rule of law.
Should we have regional or state court of appeal to limit cases going to Supreme Court? What are your reasons.
In Nigeria, the judicial system already includes a network of several divisions of the Court of Appeal, scattered around the country. Each division of the Court of Appeal serves as an intermediate appellate court, hearing appeals from the decisions of the federal and state High Courts, as well as specific tribunals within its jurisdiction. This structure ensures that legal disputes can be reviewed at multiple levels before potentially reaching the final appellate authority, the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria is designated as the final appellate court in the country. It hears cases based on specific grounds as stipulated in the Nigerian Constitution and procedural rules. Certain cases can be appealed to the Supreme Court as of right, while others require leave of the Court. In fact, there are cases where the decisions of the Court of Appeal are final, precluding further appeal to the Supreme Court. This demonstrates that not every matter automatically proceeds to the Supreme Court on appeal.
While there is ongoing discourse on the potential establishment of additional regional or state courts of appeal to alleviate the caseload of the Supreme Court, it is crucial to safeguard the access of cases with merit to the highest judicial authority. Rather than restricting access, efforts should focus on enhancing the capacity and efficiency of the Supreme Court. This includes appointing additional Supreme Court justices, ensuring adequate resources for judicial remuneration and welfare, improving court facilities and working conditions, and integrating advanced technology into the judicial process to optimize efficiency.
By investing in these areas and maintaining clear procedural rules for approaching the Supreme Court, Nigeria can strengthen its judiciary, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that the Supreme Court continues to serve as the apex authority for resolving significant legal disputes in the nation.
Do you agree with the notion that our system of appointment of judges is archaic? How do you advise that we appoint judges?
The current method of appointing judges in Nigeria has faced criticism for lacking transparency and sometimes being influenced by political considerations rather than merit. Despite these challenges, the Nigerian Constitution lays down the procedures and qualifications for the appointment of judicial officers and assigns responsibilities to bodies like the National Judicial Council (NJC) and Federal and State Judicial Service Commissions. The Revised National Judicial Council Guidelines and Procedural Rules of 2014 further elaborate on the provisions of the Constitution to provide guidelines that ensure transparency and adherence to due process. These guidelines include criteria such as legal expertise, integrity, judicial temperament, and commitment to upholding the rule of law, which are essential for maintaining the independence and credibility of the judiciary.
While the constitutional provisions and existing frameworks for judicial appointments are robust, continuous efforts to strengthen these processes are necessary. Emphasizing public participation during the appointment process can enhance transparency and accountability. Open nominations, public hearings, and rigorous vetting procedures can help ensure that only the most qualified candidates are appointed to the bench. This approach not only strengthens the judiciary but also reinforces public trust in the judicial system.
In conclusion, efforts must be made to enhance public participation in the appointment process of judicial officers to improve transparency and accountability which are crucial for maintaining the judiciary’s independence and public trust in Nigeria’s legal system.
Will you prefer being a Law Professor, or SAN or both?
Of course, as a lawyer, our ultimate career aspiration is to reach the pinnacle of the legal profession in Nigeria, the prestigious position of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
