The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the branch also named the bar centre annex after the late governor. The bar centre annex is located at the NBA, Ibadan Branch premises.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, said at the inauguration that Akeredolu was a great Ibadan bar man and an outstanding personality. Ariwoola said that the late Ondo State governor deserved to be honoured because of the sacrifices he made.
The CJN praised NBA, Ibadan, led by Mrs Folasade Aladeniyi for being outstanding. “The chairman, Aladeniyi, has done wonders even as a woman. Akeredolu really deserved what the branch has done for him. He is not here but I know his spirit and family will be happy for this. May God bless and reward everyone who ensured that this project was completed,” Ariwoola said.
The Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), remarked that Akeredolu worked tirelessly to see that NBA was given a prime place in Nigeria. He urged NBA members to emulate the late governor’s diligence and selflessness. “We have seen how he is being appreciated today. Others have to advise themselves and follow his good lifestyle. I thank Ibadan NBA for building and naming the annex after him,” Fagbemi said.
The Oyo State Chief Judge, Justice Iyabo Yerima, praised the NBA branch and other stakeholders for completion of the building.
Akeredolu’s widow, Betty, said that her late husband dedicated his life to the service of all. She said that her husband transformed Ondo State through his visionary and innovative projects, while fostering peace and harmony. He cared for his people and had their needs at heart, his outstanding services cannot be forgotten,” she said.
Earlier, the Chairman of NBA, Ibadan Chapter, Aladeniyi, said that Akeredolu was one of the country’s foremost and finest legal luminaries who championed the promotion of rule of law and social equality.
“We decided to honour our late Patron, Akeredolu, in this way, not just because he was the highest single donor to this project, but because we recognise the indelible impact he made in the legal profession.
“His legacy of leadership and friendship has had a deep and sustained impact on the Nigerian Bar Association, particularly Ibadan Bar.
“I recollect he happily gave his approval and vowed his support to this project while I was sharing the vision all around even before I assumed office as Chairman.
“We have not only built a structure with rich innovative architectural creations and works of art but have also built a good legacy,” she said.
Aladeniyi said that the building was a symbol of collective effort to promote legal excellence, protect human rights, and uphold the integrity of the legal profession, all of which Akeredolu stood for.
“This building will serve as a hub for law professionals, providing a conducive environment for learning, networking and collaboration.
“As we commission this building, we commit to using it as a tool for advancing the cause of justice and human rights, supporting professional development of our members, fostering a culture of integrity and ethics, and promoting access to justice for all Nigerians.
“The recreation hub will foster lifetime friendships among members.
“The secretary’s office and meeting room was named after late Bolaji Agoro Esq, the indefatigable two-time branch secretary who lived solely for the bar and humanity.
“My unreserved appreciation goes to my lord, Hon Justice Olu Ariwoola, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who happily accepted to do the bar, the honour of commissioning this edifice named after his lordship’s friend,” Aladeniyi said.
Dignitaries at the event include Ondo State Deputy Gov. Olayide Adelami, the first female Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Chief Folake Solanke; representatives of body of SANs, as well as family members and friends of the late Akeredolu.
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