Activist-Lawyer Adesina Ogunlana Passes Away Shortly After 60th Birthday

The legal community and civic space in Nigeria were deeply saddened on Wednesday by the heartbreaking news of the passing of Adesina Ogunlana, a stalwart in the legal profession.

Ogunlana, affectionately known as Serubawon (a Yoruba term meaning ‘scare them’ or ‘frighten the oppressors’), has embarked on his final journey—not to the courtroom to defend the voiceless or to protest grounds to challenge government policies, but to the world beyond. In a manner akin to bowing before judges as he argued for his clients, Ogunlana bowed to death just days after celebrating his 60th birthday with a lecture attended by friends and colleagues.

Ogunlana was renowned for his unwavering support of the people, frequently taking a stand on national issues. His activism was visible in key protests throughout Nigeria’s history, from the Occupy Nigeria movement in January 2012 to the 2020 #EndSARS protests and the more recent #EndBadGovernance rallies. He also served as the lawyer for #EndSARS petitioners at the panel investigating the events at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos.

Ogunlana skillfully balanced his legal practice with his activism, embracing both with equal passion. He was a significant presence in the civic space, and his absence will be profoundly felt.

In a statement, Akorede Lawal, the spokesman for the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), expressed deep sorrow over Ogunlana’s death. As a former chairman of the NBA Ikeja Branch, Ogunlana’s tenure from 2016 to 2018 marked a period of renewal within the Bar, notably leading the protest against the Lagos State Government’s 2018 Land Use Charge increase.

“At a time when citizens look to the legal profession for guidance, the loss of Adesina Ogunlana is monumental,” said Lawal. “He was a true activist, never shying away from standing with the people. Just last week, he actively participated in the Nationwide Hunger Protest in Lagos.”

Ogunlana was widely respected for his dedication to the rule of law, justice, and human rights. His passing is a significant loss for the NBA and the legal profession, and Lawal extended deep condolences to Ogunlana’s grieving family.

Social media has been flooded with tributes from friends and associates, honoring the legacy and fighting spirit of Ogunlana, who has inspired many within the civic space.