The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Wole Olanipekun

  • Olanipekun to govt: enforce Cybercrime Act against social media abuse

    Olanipekun to govt: enforce Cybercrime Act against social media abuse

    •UNILAG Pro-Chancellor admonishes graduates on character

    Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has urged the Federal Government to enforce the provisions of the 2024 Cybercrime Act to protect citizens and society from the dangers  of an unregulated social media space.

    Speaking at the 56th convocation ceremonies of UNILAG, the legal giant stressed the imperative of regulation and the need to protect citizens from constant harassment and cyber-bullying.

    He referred to the recent fine of £100,000 imposed on a blogger by a court in the United Kingdom as a measure to regulate the social media space.

    “Citizens are not protected from harassment, from banditry, from assassinations on social media. We are not aware; we are not learning. We don’t know what the law is.

    “And those of us who have a master’s degree in cybercrime, in cyber-protection, please let us look at the law.

    “An occasion like this provides an opportunity for Nigerians to have an idea of the type of protection they have under the law,” he said.

    He berated the desire to denigrate people and spoil their reputation through the internet, especially bloggers.

    The SAN said: “We must not put this country down. It will be a shame. Who will succeed us?

    “Do you disagree with any person, and the next thing you do is to sponsor bloggers to accuse someone falsely? Reputation is so sacrosanct.

    “It’s the duty of the police, the duty of the government, to protect us from bullying.”

    He advised the graduates not to join those who misuse social media for blackmail and reputation-soiling.

    “And thank you, my daughters, my sons. Please don’t be bullied. Don’t join them.

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    “Make a positive impact on society. You are going to shine. You are going to tower. You are going to soar.

    “And when others fail, you will succeed. Don’t be part of the negative people. Don’t be. And don’t let us fall away,” the legal titan added.

    On the recent settlement of the 2009 Agreement, he lauded President Bola Tinubu and Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa, stressing that the agreement should not be breached.

    The Pro-Chancellor said from next year, he would gift any male student who comes out tops in any faculty a cash prize of N500,000.

    He noted that under his watch, the Governing Council has been trying for the past 18 months to work seamlessly and change the face of the university.

    Olanipekun admonished the graduates to be good and worthy ambassadors of the university wherever they find themselves.

    “As you step into the world outside these gates today, remember: education has prepared you for a living, but character will determine who you become in life.

    “The world you enter will test your convictions before it rewards your competence. It will question your integrity before it celebrates your success. You must, therefore, stand firm.

    “Carry your learning with humility. Wear your achievements with restraint. Exercise your influence with empathy.

    “Wherever you go, let your presence add value. Let your words bring clarity. Let your conduct command trust. Do not merely seek a place in history. Earn one.

    “And when your name is spoken in rooms you may never enter, may it be said, solemnly, and without contention, that here stood a product of the University of Lagos, who lived with purpose, led with courage, and served with honour,” he said.

  • Tort law affects the everyday lives, says Olanipekun

    Tort law affects the everyday lives, says Olanipekun

    Tort law affects the everyday lives of Nigerians in ways often overlooked, a former Chairman of the Body of Benchers, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has said.

    He spoke at the presentation of a new legal treatise widely described by scholars and practitioners as a timely and significant contribution to Nigerian jurisprudence.

    The book: “Contemporary Law of Tort in Nigeria,” is written by Uche Val Obi (SAN).

    It was unveiled at a well-attended ceremony in Lagos that drew leading lights of the legal profession.

    Olanipekun, who chaired the event, described the publication as “a remarkable contribution to the very heart of legal practice.”

    He said: “Tort law shapes how society allocates responsibility and remedies harm.

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    “By producing a modern, deeply researched text, Obi has provided the courts and practitioners with a reliable compass for navigating contemporary challenges.”

    Prof. Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), who reviewed the work, underscored its academic depth and practical relevance to modern legal practice.

    He praised Obi’s scholarship, describing the text as “a masterful blend of doctrine and practicality.”

    He noted that the work goes beyond orthodox tort principles to interrogate emerging and evolving areas of liability.

    Ajogwu said: “This is the kind of scholarship that strengthens jurisprudence.

    “It speaks not only to where the law has been, but to where litigation in Nigeria is headed.”

    Obi expressed gratitude for the turnout and stated that the book was the culmination of more than three decades of legal practice and scholarship.

    He explained that the motivation for the work was a desire to reinforce the foundations of Nigerian civil justice while responding to global and technological shifts influencing tort law.

    “I felt compelled to write a text that reflects our local realities while engaging with global developments,” Obi said.

    “My hope is that it will serve as a dependable companion to students, scholars, and practitioners for years to come.”

    The SANi, who is also the author of the widely cited Class Actions in Nigeria, stressed that tort law remains one of the most dynamic areas of litigation.

    He said the book examines core doctrines such as negligence, nuisance, and vicarious liability, while also engaging newer issues arising from social and technological change.

    Obi said: “Society is evolving, technology is advancing, and the law must evolve with it. “This work attempts to capture that evolution.”

    Many of the distinguished audience of judges, senior advocates, academics, and law students highlighted the book’s depth, clarity, and relevance at a time when civil liability litigation is becoming increasingly complex.

  • Olanipekun calls for urgent restructuring to save legal profession

    Olanipekun calls for urgent restructuring to save legal profession

    …says armchair critics destroying Nigeria’s sense of humanity

    A legal luminary, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, has raised the alarm that the legal profession in Nigeria may die in the nearest future if nothing concrete is done now to resuscitate and reinvigorate it.

    Olanipekun said the onus lies on him and others atop the profession presently to climb down from their Olympian heights to uplift the law stratum and its occupants, including students in the various faculties of law across the country lest the practitioners wake up one day and discover that they have no profession anymore.

    The philanthropist who spoke on Friday, February 21 during the commissioning of the Wole Olanipekun Law Auditorium (WOLA) at Babcock University Ilisan Ogun State, said the profession, practitioners, and law students are grappling with failing and falling infrastructures.

    The WOLA which was donated by him to the private university, was unveiled by the Akarigbo and Paramount ruler of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, himself a lawyer and chartered Accountant.

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    Olanipekun lamented that Nigeria was gradually losing her humanity, in the sense that there are more arm-chaired critics and people obsessed with the ‘pull-down’ syndrome, than those who want to invest in humanity.

    He noted that one did not have to be any of the American billionaires such as Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, Melinda Gates or Chuck Feeney to uplift others and institutions, explaining that Babcock and other private as well as public varsities in Nigeria need the benevolence of Nigerians, particularly, those who have received God’s benevolence.

    He commended Babcock for its efficient management system, saying in terms of disbursement of scarce resources, through shrewdness, prudence, fidelity and fear of God, it ranks amongst the best in Nigeria, if not globally.

    He said, “We need to humble ourselves. Otherwise, we might wake up in the nearest future to embrace the naked reality that we have no profession any more. In order to appreciate what exactly the lower stratum of the profession looks like or experiences. It is a stratum that urgently needs assistance, restructuring, reinvigorating, resuscitating, reenergizing and much encouragement. It is mandatory for us to uplift that stratum as well as its occupants, including students in the various Faculties of Law across the country, as well as the failing and falling infrastructures they contend with.

    “Agreed, that Babcock is a private University owned by the Seventh Day Adventist Church, we must not forget the fact that this great Institution, as well as other private and public Universities in Nigeria, need the benevolence of Nigerians, particularly, those who have received God’s benevolence.

    “Let us be honest with ourselves, one does not need to be a Warren Buffett, a Bill Gates or Melinda Gates, a Chuck Feeney, a Zell Kravinsky, Dolly Parton,  John D. Rockefeller,6 Aliko Dangote, or Mike Adenuga before he can impact meaningfully on humanity or intervene in the meteoric rise of others, without competing with the ‘money bags’

    “It is rather unfortunate that Nigeria is gradually losing her humanity, in the sense that we produce more arm-chaired critics, some of who are obsessed with the ‘pull-down’ syndrome, than people who subscribe to or invest in humanity.  Coming specifically to our constituency, the legal profession, I state with all humility, but with every sense of responsibility that those of us who are atop the profession presently must, of necessity and urgency, descend from our Olympian heights, and disembark from our high horses.

    “We need to humble ourselves in order to appreciate what exactly the lower stratum of the profession looks like or experiences. It is a stratum that urgently needs assistance, restructuring, reinvigorating, resuscitating, reenergizing and much encouragement. It is mandatory for us to uplift that stratum as well as its occupants, including students in the various Faculties of Law across the country, as well as the failing and falling infrastructures they contend with.

    “Otherwise, we might wake up in the nearest future to embrace the naked reality that we have no profession any more. Thus, our profession needs more well-meaning interventionists to provide the necessary wherewithal for the very fragile base level. Having said this, I charge everyone with the words of the legendary Greek philosopher, Aristotle: “To give away money is an easy matter and in any man’s power. But to decide to whom to give it, and how large and when, and for what purpose and how, is neither in every man’s power nor an easy matter. Hence, it is that such excellence is rare, praiseworthy and noble.”

    “May I add the truism as contained in the Holy Writ, that: “nothing that has been received that has not been given.” May this Law Auditorium inspire our students to learn, aspire and strive for excellence in all their endeavours. May the event of today also motivate the students, who, by the grace of God, will be greater than us in the nearest future, to imbibe the admonition of our Lord Jesus Christ, as encapsulated in Luke 10:37, to “…Go and do thou likewise…”

    Earlier in his welcome address, the Vice President/ Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Professor Ademola Tayo, said Olanipekun has not only built a stellar legacy in the profession, he has also exemplified what it means to invest in the future through education.

    He said, ‘This monumental edifice is more than just a building of blocks, bricks, pillars, poles, and mortars: it is a beacon of knowledge, a hallowed chamber of law, a sanctuary for learning, and a hub for intellectual discourse.

    “The value of this iconic structure to the university is unparalleled. It will enhance our academic landscape; strengthen our reputation as a centre for legal excellence, and a world-class facility that will benefit generations to come.

    “For our students and faculty in the School of Law and Security Studies, this Wole Olanipekun Law Auditorium is a game-changer. It will serve as a dynamic space for lectures, symposia, moot court sessions, and legal debates, thus fostering a deeper understanding of the law and refining the advocacy skills of our future legal luminaries.

    “The modernity of the facility and conducive environment will inspire both learning and teaching, empowering our students to engage with the law in ways that are both practical and transformative.

    “Beyond Babcock University, this donation advances the course of quality legal education in Nigeria. It sets a precedent for private-sector support in academia and reinforces the critical role of state-of-the-art infrastructure in shaping the next generation of legal professionals. A well-equipped learning environment produces well-equipped minds and with this facility. Babcock.”

  • Olanipekun backs constitution review, seeks six years single term for president

    Olanipekun backs constitution review, seeks six years single term for president

    The former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Wole Olanipekun, SAN, on Sunday backed the ongoing constitution review exercise in the country, proposing a six-year single term for the president. 

    The bill which was sponsored by the member representing the Ideato North/ Ideato South Federal Constituency, Imo State, Ikenga Ugochinyere, and 33 others was rejected by House of Representative two weeks ago. 

    But the 34 lawmakers vowed to consult with stakeholders towards reintroducing the proposal in the future. 

    Olanipekun said that the six year single term proposal was first suggested by the NBA in 2022 when he was the President but was outrightly rejected by the former president Olusegun Obasanjo when he was in the saddle. 

    Olanipekun stated these while speaking with newsmen in Ikere-Ekiti, Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti state during the 28th Scholarship Award Scheme, and 5th Empowerment Programme of Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme. 

    He noted that the pattern suggested by NBA was more realistic than the current template,saying if the template has been adopted, the country would have witness progress.

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    He added that the six year single term was proposed to stabilize the country’s system of government and avert crisis brewing among geopolitical zones on the presidential seat.

    Olanipekun said “When I was the president of NBA, 2002-2004, we originated it. It was one of the proposals we brought to Obasanjo as president but he rejected it.

    “The proposal was beautifully crafted and the plan was to stabilise the federal republic of Nigeria and we suggested a single term of five or six years for presidents.

    “We suggested  that  since there are six geo-political zones in Nigeria, if the President comes from the southwest, there will be six Vice Presidents but those VPs must have a portfolio like ministry of Justice, education, Defence, FCT, Works.

    “A geopolitical zone that has a Vice President of education will not have a Minister of education. We read it out for him and if per adventure, the president of a geo-political zone whether impeached or dies in office, the Vice President from his geo-political zone will complete his tenure.

    “We would have stabilized the system but it didn’t work.I  am still on the view that we have to do something about the constitution, we have to look into it, the constitution to me is not federal, it does not reflect what we have on ground as people of Nigeria, as the context of Nigeria. We should have a constitution that is homegrown, no constitution is perfect but we can’t be going on with an imperfect constitution, it’s just a house with no good foundation and something has to be done to it”.

    Speaking further, Chief Olanipekun said  the empowerment programme  was his way of giving back to the society and uplifting those in need which reflect his belief in sharing blessings with others.

    While urging those in privileged positions to embrace service to humanity as a pathway to divine fulfillment, the legal icon charged the beneficiaries to maximize the opportunity provided by the empowerment programmes , not only for their personal growth but also become a blessing to their community.

    In his remarks, Governor Biodun Oyebanji described Chief Olanipekun as a legend and a blessing not only to Ekiti people but to humanity.

    While describing Olanipekun as a pillar of support for the state and a beacon of hope for the younger generation and a leader  who derive joy in putting smiles on the faces of the downtrodden, the Governor said the foundation has given scholarship to over 3,019 students across the country empowered 500 aged and widows as well as 550 youth in entrepreneurship. 

    Reiterating his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote development and empower the people, Governor Oyebanji urged other privileged Nigerians to emulate Olanipekun’s spirit of service and dedication to humanity.

    “You are a gift not only to Ikere, not to Ekiti State alone, not to Nigeria but to humanity. Thank you for being a selfless leader, thank you for your love for your people and thank you for always identifying with them” .

    “What Chief is doing in Ikere, Ekiti State, Nigeria, and Globally speaks to a man that loves God. A man that wants to share his blessings with the less privileged and I commend him and his family for the support,” the Governor said.

  • Wole Olanipekun and the cartography of compassion

    Wole Olanipekun and the cartography of compassion

    • “Salus populi suprema lex esto” – Cicero.

    The commissioning of The Wole Olanipekun Senate Building at the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI), Ikere, Ekiti State, last Thursday, has again testified to the power of visionary leadership and the boundless potential of human generosity.

    In a world where the pursuit of knowledge is often overshadowed by the pursuit of power and wealth, Wole Olanipekun’s commitment to the ‘civilizing mission’ of education is a breath of fresh air. This iconic Senate Building stands as a beacon of hope and an illuminating path to a brighter future for generations of students, scholars and leaders.

    The Wole Olanipekun Senate Building is the latest addition to the legal luminary’s benevolent social interventions. As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Ibadan (2009-2013), he oversaw the expansion of the institution to Ajibode, easing congestion on the main campus. Notably, he donated a 450-capacity Law Auditorium to the Ajibode Campus, setting a precedent for private sector support for public education. The auditorium was commissioned by the then Minister of Education, Professor Ruqquayat Rufai, on November 17, 2012. During Olanipekun’s tenure, the University experienced a transformative era of innovation and growth

    As Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Ajayi Crowther University (ACU), Oyo (2013–2022), Olanipekun built and donated to the University a magnificent Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge, named Wole and Lara Olanipekun Vice-Chancellor’s Lodge. In January 2023, the proprietors of ACU appointed him as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, a position he currently holds.

    In February 2021, the Asiwaju of Ikere Kingdom was appointed as the pioneer Chancellor of the newly-established BOUESTI, a position he has also held to date. The Senate Building gifted to the University by the former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in the old Ondo State was commissioned last Thursday.

    When Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso (LAUTECH) faced a prolonged crisis, resulting in a two-session closure, the Governors of Oyo and Osun States jointly appointed Olanipekun to lead a panel to resuscitate the institution. He accepted the pro-bono assignment, and the panel was inaugurated on October 28, 2016. In 2017, Olanipekun submitted comprehensive reports to the governors, and the implementation of his panel’s recommendations successfully led to the university’s reopening, with academic activities running smoothly ever since.

    On January 19, 2023, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State commissioned an ultra-modern High Court Complex, built and donated by Olanipekun to the Ekiti State High Court, Ikere Judicial Division. Also that year, the 20th President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and 50th Chairman of the Body of Benchers was appointed as a Visiting Professor of Law Practice by the Federal University, Oye, Ekiti State, making him the first legal practitioner to hold this position in Nigeria.

    On June 15, 2024, President Bola Tinubu announced the appointment of this foremost Nigerian citizen, “who can do anything for education”, as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Lagos. Of course, it was a fitting recognition of his stature and influence. Olanipekun and all other members of Governing Councils of Federal Universities and Tertiary Institutions were formally inaugurated on July 4, 2024.

    Olanipekun’s philanthropic endeavours have significantly impacted numerous individuals and communities. The Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme (WOSS), established in 1996, has produced over 3,019 beneficiaries across various disciplines, in and outside Nigeria. In 2020, he founded the Wole Olanipekun Foundation (WOF) Empowerment Programme to support vulnerable groups. To date, the Foundation has empowered over 200 widows, 200 aged people and 400 young entrepreneurs, in addition to 600 palliative beneficiaries. His donations to universities and educational institutions continue to demonstrate his commitment to empowering future generations through education.

    Described by Oyebanji as “a man loved by God who uses his kindheartedness to serve humanity”, Olanipekun will, today, November 30, 2024, be empowering a new set of Nigerians, marking the 5th edition of his philanthropic initiative. He will also award scholarships to deserving students, the 28th batch of beneficiaries.

    Olanipekun’s achievements testify to the power of understated generosity even as his remarkable journey in law serves as a powerful rebuke to a society that often prioritizes profit over principle. In a world where wealth and power often define legacy, individuals like the Rockefellers, Cadburys and Fords have left an indelible mark on society. Their contributions have transcended generations, inspiring future leaders to follow in their footsteps. Olanipekun is a contemporary example of this selfless approach. As a Yoruba man, he draws inspiration from Nigeria’s first lawyer, Christopher Alexander Sapara Williams (1855-1915), Nigeria’s first lawyer who believed that “a lawyer lives for the direction of his people and the achievement of the cause of his country.”

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    This ‘Pride of Ekiti’ also continues the tradition of great lawyers like Sir Adeyemo Alakija, who saw the law as a tool for social progress and human upliftment. This wave of progressive thinking was ignited on August 7, 1925, with the foundation of the West African Students Union (WASU) by a group of 21 students – predominantly from Nigeria – in London, led by Ladipo Solanke and Dr. Herbert Bankole-Bright, a Sierra Leonean physician. Thankfully, the torch has been passed down through generations of lawyers, including superb advocates like Obafemi Awolowo, Rotimi Williams, Bode Thomas, Adegoke Adelabu and Ladoke Akintola. As fate would have it, Olanipekun’s receipt of this torch marked the beginning of a remarkable legacy, one that he has exemplary passed on, cementing a worthwhile tradition.

    In the words of the great philosopher, Aristotle, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” Olanipekun embodies the ethos of excellence and the quintessence of a great Nigerian. As a legal luminary, this selfless benefactor and inspirational figure has navigated the complexities of Nigeria’s socio-political landscape with remarkable agility, earning the esteem and admiration of his peers and the gratitude of countless individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by his selfless interventions. As a philanthropist, his concern of passion, born of a deep sense of empathy and compassion, has also brought solace and relief to numerous individuals and communities, reinforcing his reputation as a leader of unimpeachable character and untiring integrity.

    Well, critics may have argued that Olanipekun’s initiatives lacked clear metrics for success or adequate oversight. Some may also have been of the opinion that his service to humanity has potentially undermined their effectiveness and legitimacy. Another potential criticism is that of elitism and disconnect from ordinary Nigerians. Others may question the long-term impact of his philanthropy or whether it addresses the root causes of poverty and inequality in Nigeria, and among Nigerians. As a lawyer and former NBA president, Olanipekun likely faced criticism for potential conflicts of interest, impartiality and perpetuating a flawed legal system. His commitment to promoting education and social justice may also have created tensions with traditional power structures or cultural norms.

    In the light of reality, philanthropic efforts often face criticism, and Olanipekun’s initiatives are no exception. Experts emphasize the importance of strategic giving, transparency and accountability in philanthropy. While it is natural to expect scrutiny, philosophers like Aristotle and Immanuel Kant remind us that cultivating virtues and moral principles is more important than seeking to please everyone – a Sisyphean task doomed to fail. By acknowledging these complexities, we can better understand Olanipekun’s initiatives and the philanthropic landscape in Nigeria. His example inspires us to strive for virtue, even if we can’t please everyone.

    May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

  • Olanipekun: Greatness won with honest toil

    Olanipekun: Greatness won with honest toil

    By Sunday Saanu

    The title of this piece is extracted from verse two of the University of Ibadan (UI) anthem. It is one of the most striking lines of the anthem, underscoring the importance of achieving greatness or success through hard work and transparency. However, since this story is all about a man who achieves greatness through honest toil, it is apposite to interrogate the concept of greatness. So, what is greatness?     Greatness is a cocktail of qualities that include honesty, integrity, passion, resilience, fortitude, self-belief and strong values. All of these come together to create a uniquely strong character that consistently achieves success after success.

    Greatness is a state of being important, notable or distinguished. Its synonyms are dignity, heroism, nobility, prominence among others. However, two powerful keys to greatness are humility and service. An English architect, Charles Fowler observes that the best teachers of humanity are the lives of great men. Against this background, therefore, one may not be wide off the point to examine the life of one of the greatest men in Nigeria at the moment with a view to gleaning some vital lessons

    Without doubt, Chief Oluwole Oladapo Olanipekun, Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) and  Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) remains one of the greatest men in Nigeria today. The legal colossus who turns 73 on 18 November, 2024, having been born on 18 November, 1951 at Ikere Ekiti in Ekiti state is a national figure who has demonstrated exemplary leadership, characterized by profound patriotism and unparalleled dedication to the progress of this country.

     For those who may not have known, Chief Olanipekun holds the distinction of being a single lawyer who has handled cases for four Nigerian sitting Presidents back-to-back. He was a counsel to the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. He handled President Goodluck Jonathan’s case, President Muhammadu Buhari’s legal matter as well as the incumbent, Bola Tinubu. The list of governorship cases he has successfully defended is almost endless. What else defines the greatness of a man? In fact, having handled cases for four sitting presidents and numerous state governors is in itself a testament to his ground-breaking accomplishments.

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    Let me attempt to deconstruct the enigma. Chief Olanipekun, without doubt, is one of the best and brightest brains in the legal firmament in Nigeria. Indeed, he is one of the diamonds that continue to shine luminously in the Nigerian landscape. Across the world, this legal titan has won several seats among the stars as he remains an influential doyen. To those who are familiar with him, he is a mighty man of means who lives a spartan lifestyle. When it comes to jurisprudence, this former President  of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) knows which tortoise is male, as he has been the in-and-out of almost everything experience can offer.

    He approaches his life career with deliberate intentionality, authenticity and unrelenting consistency. Consequently, he becomes a super achiever and a peak performing person. But beyond his attitude and attributes, here is a man who has demonstrated the purpose of wealth and the place of the privileged in a poor country like ours. Chief Olanipekun has used his wealth to reconstruct many awkward destinies. He has spent substantial part of his wealth to lift several thousands of people out of poverty. Perhaps this is one of the reasons there will never be a celebratory staleness of this iconic personality of all seasons. For instance, in this month, hundreds of intelligent but indigent students across the country are going to benefit from his scholarship scheme known as Wole Olanipekun Scholarship Scheme (WOSS). He gives scholarship every year. This writer was once a beneficiary. And, the WOSS has been up and running for over 20 years.

    There are many other initiatives he has embarked upon simply to alleviate poverty in the country and to empower the youth, widows and the aged. Yet, he has no political ambition. The point is that he is a generous giver and a phenomenal philanthropist who is always using his voice for kindness, his ears for compassion and his hands for generosity.

    Chief Olanipekun who is the immediate past Chairman of Nigerian Body of Benchers has exhibited exemplary leadership in this country which is characterized by wisdom, integrity and unparalleled dedication to the progress and prosperity of the people. Indeed, this tailored man of excellent manner remains a study in selfless service. His legacies and achievements in every position he ever occupies are legendary.

    When he was the Pro Chancellor and Chairman of Council at the University of Ibadan between 2009 and 2013, he personally built a gigantic lecture theatre and donated it to signpost his tenure. He did the same thing at Ajayi Crowther University (ACU) Oyo when he personally built the Vice Chancellor’s lodge. Let me take the liberty of privilege to reveal that as I was putting this piece together in the middle of the night, I received his invitation to the commissioning of a newly built Wole Olanipekun Senate Building at Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI) Ikere Ekiti.

     Interestingly, an American lawyer and orator, Robert Ingersoll could not have been more correct when he says a great man does not seek applause, rather he seeks the road to happiness. Chief Olanipekun, being a great man, is ever committed to seeking the road to happiness for the people. His gentle mien, compassion and reticence are the ethos that define a real leader in him. The giant strides and impact he has made, have remained a reference point in many quarters.

    In the last fifteen years that I have been writing for him, we have maintained a kind of kinship that has enabled me to know him more closely,  I am proud to be numbered among his disciples. With my close relationship with him, I can authoritatively assert that Chief Olanipekun is a positive change ambassador. I have benefited immensely from the nobility of his vision. I recall with gratitude his numerous financial interventions in many cases that I have had to call him to beam his torch in the darkness. He had not failed to serve as an oasis in the desert.

    With his famed golden voice, clear and crisp diction, royal swagger, he exudes illuminative panache and gentlemanliness, as he epitomizes excellence and embodies the values and virtues of dedication, compassion and innovation. This living legend is forthright and firm, he is rich and righteous, living a life of service and sacrifice to humanity. Without exaggeration, this man of stellar character is not just a man, but a man of fame and fortune, a man of influence and affluence who exemplifies courage, conduct and class. His huge intellectual savvy and uncompromising sense of justice position him as a specimen worthy to be studied.

    Amazingly, his is probably a house of heroes and heroines. All his children who are lawyers are in the same superlative cerebral class. Two of them are already Senior Advocates of Nigeria. One is actively involved in Chief Olanipekun’s chamber. However, getting his children involved in his legal practice simply demonstrates a strong narrative about parenting and legacy sustainability.

    As I celebrate the life of this elegant icon and national treasure, I remain proud of his immense contributions to national development and salute his life of indelible service to God and humanity. The story of this special breed is a story of achievements, humanism and greatness. According to a Roman politician, Mark Anthony, “a man’s true greatness lies in the consciousness of an honest purpose of life, founded on a just estimate of himself and everything else, on frequent self-examinations and a steady obedience to the rule which he knows to be right, without troubling himself about what others may think or say”. Anthony is perfectly right. Chief Olanipekun does not trouble himself about the opinion of others. He only does what he feels is right.

     In summary, this birthday is not just the passage of another year, but a testament to greatness won with honest toil. It is also a celebration of selfless sacrifice and service to humanity. I reflect on Chief Olanipekun’s remarkable achievements and the profound impact he has made with it, I humbly doff my hat for him. We need many more of him in this country. His enviable example has provided us with an invaluable framework with which to conduct our lives.

     I round off this tribute by asserting that what we do for ourselves die with us, but what we do for other lives forever. By living forever in the memory of our beneficiaries, we achieve historical immortality. The major lesson from this narrative could be found in the words of Etienne de Grellet who says “I shall pass this life but once; any good that I can do or any kindness I can show to any human being; let me do it now. Let me not differ  nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this life again”. This is the definition of Chief Wole Olanipekun’s lifestyle. He has been so gracious to all manner of people. May God continue to replenish him.

    A happy birthday, sir, a great man, who carries greatness lightly.

    • Saanu (08034073427) is with the University of Ibadan.

  • Olanipekun: it’s time for restructuring, new constitution

    Olanipekun: it’s time for restructuring, new constitution

    A former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has restated the call for restructuring and a new constitution.

    He believes one of the ways to quickly actualise the blueprints and assurances of the Bola Tinubu Administration “is the immediate restructuring of this country in every material particular”.

    Olanipekun also said any meaningful amendment “must start from righting the lies told against itself by the constitution”.

    He faulted the centralised policing structure and the description of governors as chief security officers of their states when they lack control over the agencies.

    The former Body of Benchers Chairman delivered the 40th convocation lecture of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, last Wednesday.

    He spoke on the theme: “Mass exodus of human capital in Nigeria: an anatomical analysis of the causes and effects.”

    The SAN acknowledged efforts towards birthing a workable document which has, over the years led to the first, second, third, fourth and now fifth alterations.

    “I maintain the view that all these still remain a charade, or better put, a window dressing,” he said.

     New constitution needed

     Olanipekun wondered who the “people” referred to in the preamble of the constitution are, arguing that no singular person can assume the pronoun ‘we’. 

    He recalled that the 1999 Constitution was promulgated by the military regime of General Abdulsalami Abubakar after the Constitution Debate Co-ordinating Committee led by Justice Niki Tobi submitted its report.

    The committee, he noted, barely had two months to consult with Nigerians before submitting its report.

    Olanipekun said: “The report was merely advisory and cannot by any means of argument answer the question ‘who are the ‘we’?”

    He added: “The National Assembly has to put on the right ‘thinking cap’ in order to completely overhaul the present constitution.

    “This has been my sing-song and homily in several presentations, and it is a patriotic call which we can only neglect at our own collective peril.”

    Olanipekun’s call comes days after another former NBA president, Dr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), called for a new constitution that will have the input of the “owners of Nigeria”.

     Need for restructuring

     On the need for restructuring, Olanipekun noted that Section 2(2) of the constitution describes Nigeria as a ‘federation’ when in actual fact, it is a unitary system.

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    Citing a section, he asked: “How can a country be a federation when all ‘the entire property in and control of all minerals, mineral oils and natural gas in, under or upon any land in Nigeria or in, under or upon the territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone of Nigeria is vested in the Government of the Federation’?

    “What is then left for the component units known as the states?

    “The effect of this is that all states queue at the Federal Capital Territory on a monthly basis for handouts, rather than the states contributing to the centre. 

    “As far as I am concerned, this is the beginning of our economic woes which is sending Nigerians fleeing the country in their droves.”

    Centralised policing faulty

    Olanipekun, who lamented the killing of two monarchs and abduction of pupils in his home state Ekiti, said the same unitary system also adversely affects security.

    He stressed that a governor is only the chief security officer in name because he has no control over security agencies, which to him is an anomaly.

    Olanipekun said: “In terms of security, how do we have a Federal Government with federating states where the governors do not have any jurisdiction or power over the security systems or apparati in their state; yet a governor is casually labelled as the chief security officer of his state!

    “He does not appoint the Commissioner of Police in his state as all he hears is the deployment of a Commissioner of Police to his State. He has no say, even in the deployment.

    “We should stop deceiving ourselves by sending Police Commissioners from any state in the North to the Southwest or the Southeast or vice versa when such Police Commissioners have never been to such places before or have any idea or knowledge of the language or dialect of the people.”

    He added: “I appeal to President Tinubu that the time to restructure this country is now,” Olanipekun said.

     ‘Make Chapter 2 of Constitution justiceable’

    The SAN, in the over 17,000-word lecture, called for Chapter 2 of the Constitution relating to the fundamental objectives and directive principles of state policy to be made justiceable.

    Olanipekun said: “It is appalling that these fundamental ideals are considered non-justiciable. That is, they are not enforceable duties.

    “Without mincing words, these ought to have constituted integral constituents of the Fundamental Human Rights.

    “Otherwise, of what essence is the enforceable right to life under section 33 of the Constitution, when the commensurate rights to livelihood as expressed through the economic objectives, food security and educational rights under Chapter 2 are not enforceable?”

     On FAAN, CBN relocation to Lagos

    The SAN faulted the comments by Senator Ali Ndume that there will be “political consequences” if some departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) are moved to Lagos.

    He said: “Surprisingly, a ranking Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has threatened fire and brimstone on the simple and logical relocations, further warning (or is it threatening?) the President of the political consequences of his action.

    “It would be recalled that prior to the last administration, the FAAN Headquarters had always been in Lagos, and inexplicably so.

    “It would also be recalled that as at the time Lagos used to be the capital of Nigeria, the Nigeria Defence Academy was located in Kaduna, and it is still there to date.

    “Ditto for a lot of Federal Government parastatals and agencies.

    “It is not a subject of debate that Lagos is the commercial Capital of Nigeria, just as Dubai is the commercial capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and New York, the commercial capital of the United States of America (U.S.A).

    “The case of South Africa presents a vivid and instructive example of the seamless working of an ideal nation, as the capital is in Pretoria, while the Parliament is at Cape Town, the Judiciary is headquartered at Bloemfontein, the Constitutional Court is at Johannesburg. Okey Ikechukwu’s recent piece on this subject is very illustrative.

    “While Washington D.C is now the capital of the U.S.A, most of the country’s strategic establishments are housed in New York. Brasilia is the present capital of Brazil, but Rio de Janeiro, the old capital is still treated as a national treasure house.

    “No German leader discriminates as between Berlin which is the present capital of Germany and Bonn, the former capital. As between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, no Israeli leader will ever discriminate.

    “Even on a global scale, the Headquarters of the United Nations is in New York, while the International Court of Justice is located in the Hague, Netherlands. The examples are limitless.”

     How to halt ‘japa’ syndrome

    Olanipekun noted that youths are leaving the country en masse because of joblessness, frustration and man’s inhumanity to man, but warned against the dangers of the ‘japa’ syndrome as not all that glitters is gold.

    He said: “Those fleeing the country should weigh the options very well, and be reminded of Hobson’s treatise on Imperialism.

    “Taking a cue from Hobson, the exodus of human capital is akin to the extension of the national markets into foreign land, in search of profits greater than those available in the Mother Country.

    “Apart from Hobson’s position is the issue of loss of national identity, from one generation to another, as we are witnessing now.

    “Native language or, call it mother tongue, is the strongest weapon that links a person to his roots, and this is learnt right from one’s cradle or infancy.

    “China and Japan are veritable examples of countries that are developing so fast because all educational tools and modes of communication are in their respective languages.

    “Here we are in Nigeria, with some of our children who cannot communicate with us, in our so-called mother tongues; the case of the grandchildren is more pathetic.

    “Let us pause for a second and ask ourselves whether we have a typical English or American child who cannot communicate in the English language. We are in a serious dilemma, and plunging into an unending conundrum,” Olanpekun said.

    The legal giant added: “Juxtaposing this old practice with the efflux or exodus of our human capital as represented by our youths today, the intriguing question arises, that is, what does Nigeria gain in this present narrative?

    “Indeed, we gain nothing; whereas, we lose all! Our generation has inflicted this sordid situation on our children/youths, as well as ourselves, hence, it is imperative we halt the negative trend; otherwise, history will be harsh on all of us.”

  • Olanipekun for Convocation lecture

    Olanipekun for Convocation lecture

    Former Chairman, Body of Benchers, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) will tomorrow deliver the 40th Convocation Lecture of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

    The legal luminary who is also the  Pro-Chancellor of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere, will speak on the topic: “Mass Exodus Of Human Capital In Nigeria: An Anatomical Analysis Of Causes and Effects.”

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    The lecture will hold at the institution’s  lecture hall, in the main campus. 

  • Olanipekun: my administration didn’t neglect murdered Igwes

    Olanipekun: my administration didn’t neglect murdered Igwes

    A former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has defended his administration’s handling of the killing of a couple, Barnabas and Abigail Igwe, during his tenure.

    He said the association under him did not abandon the Igwe family and their children.

    According to him, not only was the NBA fully involved in the couple’s burial, but it was also responsible for the welfare and education of the orphaned children.

    Barnabas and Abigail Igwe, both lawyers known for their activism, were murdered on September 1, 2002. Their killers are yet to be found.

    Olanipekun stated that a professor of law, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, in an article entitled: “Juliana and Vincent Igwe: POTY 2023,” made “subtle suggestions” that the NBA abandoned the Igwes.

    But the SAN said because Odinkalu’s piece (not published by The Nation) touches on his stewardship between 2002 and 2004, he needed to set the records straight.

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    Olanipekun said not only was he vociferous in his condemnation of the killings, but members of his Executive Council took actions towards bringing the killers and their sponsors to book.

    He said he visited the then Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tafa Balogun, on September 11, 2002, to demand an investigation. He also subsequently wrote the IGP.

    Olanipekun said the NBA under him obtained fiats to prosecute the case against the suspected perpetrators of the murder, with about 10 senior lawyers drafted into the private prosecuting team.

    The SAN said he also briefed former President Olusegun Obasanjo on November 11, 2002, during which he called for a Commission of Inquiry to unravel several murders in the country (including the killing of Chief Bola Ige (SAN) and the Igwes).

    After the burial of the Igwes, which he said the NBA took charge of, along with a valedictory court session, Olanipekun said a fundraising committee was set up “for the welfare of the orphaned children”.

    The SAN said he contributed to the Endowment Fund Account set up for that purpose, with members of the Onitsha branch levying themselves N1,000 each towards the Fund.

    “Without any fear of contradiction and contrary to Odinkalu’s unfair innuendos, for the two years that I held sway as the President of the NBA, we were responsible for the welfare and education of the children of the Igwes.

    “Successive disbursements were made from the meagre contributions to the Fund to the children, through Mr. Vincent Igwe, as occasions demanded and after proper scrutiny by the NBA,” Olanipekun stated.

    He added: “Records do not lie. For example, in the Minutes of the NBA-NEC Meeting held on 12th & 13th February 2004, at the Confluence Beach Hotel, Lokoja, Kogi State, it was/is recorded that: ‘The General Secretary briefed the House on the recent payment by the Association of the sum of N480,980.00 to Mr. Vincent Igwe, the younger brother of late Barnabas Igwe, Esq. and the guardian of the deceased three children, through the Chairman of Onitsha Branch.’

    “At the said meeting, the General Secretary and Treasurer informed NEC that the total amount outstanding to the credit of the NBA/Igwe Endowment Fund Account (before the disbursement of the sum of N480,980.00) was N2,646,400.00.

    “In paragraph 3.1 of my valedictory speech as NBA President on 23rd August 2004, during the Annual Conference, I again reported the establishment of the Endowment Fund Scheme for the children of the Igwes, and posited thus: ‘For now, the NBA has been responsible for the upkeep and education of the children of the deceased.’”

    Olanipekun recalled that when the late Abigail’s sister who resides in the United Kingdom pleaded to take the children along with her, he opted to make some funds available for their logistics, but Mr. Vincent Igwe objected to the move, citing some Igbo customary inhibitions.

    “While I have restrained myself, as much as possible, from being personal in this rejoinder, which has been forced on me by Chidi, my thinking had always been that I had a chummy relationship with him, which, ordinarily, should have warranted him to, at least, put a call across to me to crosscheck, verify, ascertain or authenticate the veracity of his information or outcome of his conceived claim before reducing it to a winter fiction, saturated with very unfortunate insinuations….

    “Lastly, my dear brother, Chidi, should deploy his tentacles to unearthing the very unpalatable and sometimes threatening letters written to me by powerful and influential figures in the Anambra polity at the time, on this Igwe’s saga.

    “My stewardship to the NBA remains untainted, just as it is in the few public offices I have held in time past, whether as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the University of Ibadan, Pro-Chancellor of the Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo and Chancellor of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere.

    “It is on record that, in all of these offices, I did not only decline the statutory emoluments legitimately accruing to me, I also deployed my God-given resources to the course of humanity and the advancement of the institutions.”

  • Court dismisses AGF’s objection to MTN’s N3.b suit

    The Federal High Court in Lagos Tuesday dismissed a preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) challenging a N3billion suit by MTN Nigeria Communication Ltd.

    MTN sued the AGF for demanding N242 billion and $1.3 billion as import duties and withholding tax assessments from it.

    By a September 10, 2018 writ, MTN is challenging the legality of the AGF’s assessment of the import duties, withholding tax and value-added tax.

    But, the AGF, in the preliminary objection, argued that the suit was statute-barred, thus robbing the court of jurisdiction.

    Arguing the motion on March 26, AGF’s counsel Mr. Tijani Gazali urged the court to strike out the suit on the ground that it was instituted outside the time prescribed by law.

    The AGF contended that the suit disregarded Section 2 of the Public Officers Protection Act, which provides that any lawsuit against a public officer must be file within three months of cause of action.

    He said rather than MTN responding to the demand, it filed the case.

    But, MTN through its counsel Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), who led Damia Dodo (SAN) and Prof Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), argued that the AGF’s objection was unfounded.

    MTN’s lawyers maintained that the AGF’s contentions were unacceptable and unknown to law.

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    They argued that the cause of action actually crystalised when the AGF made a demand of MTN and threatened the company with court action on August 20.

    Ruling, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke held that the suit was not statute-barred.

    “The pertinent question to ask is: when did the cause of action arise? Is it on May 21, 2018 when the plaintiff received the defendant’s letter dated May 10, 2018, or on August 23, 2018 when it received the defendant’s demand letter dated August 20, 2018?

    “In my view, paragraph 24 among other paragraphs of the plaintiff’s statement of claim is germane in resolving this issue. MTN avers that the AGF afforded it insufficient time to respond to its queries.

    “Judging from the plaintiff’s writ of summons and statement of claim as I am concerned to do, it will seem to me that the plaintiff’s cause of action with respect to this suit arose on August 23, 2018 when the plaintiff received the defendant’s letter of demand dated August 20, 2018, and not May 21, 2018 when it received the demand letter of May 10, 2018.

    “From the endorsement on the writ, this suit was commenced on September 10, 2018.

    “A simple calculation shows that from August 23, 2018 when cause of action arose to September 10, 2018 when the suit was instituted, a period of three months had not expired as envisaged for the suit to be statute-barred,” he said.

    The court held that the irresistible conclusion to be drawn is that the suit was not statute-barred

    “The preliminary objection is hereby dismissed in its entirety,” Justice Aneke held.

    MTN is seeking a declaration that the AGF’s demand of N242 billion and $1.3 billion from it was premised on a process that is malicious, unreasonable and based on incorrect legal reasons.

    The plaintiff said the purported “revenue assets investigation” carried out by the Federal Government for the period of 2007 – 2017 violated Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution.

    MTN is praying the court to declare that the AGF acted in excess of his powers by directing a “self-assessment exercise” which usurps the powers of the Nigerian Customs Service to demand duties on imported physical goods.

    It is seeking a declaration that the AGF acted illegally by also usurping the powers of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to audit and demand remittance of withholding tax and value-added tax.

    The plaintiff wants a declaration that the purported “self-assessment” exercise by the AGF via its letter of last May 10 is unknown to law, and is therefore null and void and of no effect whatsoever.

    MTN is further praying the court to for an order vacating the AGF’s demand letter.

    It is claiming N3billion as general and exemplary damages as well as legal costs from the Federal Government.

    Justice Aneke adjourned until June 26 for hearing.