The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), alongside the founder of First Bethel Solicitors, Ashiwaju Omoniyi Odeyemi, have called on legal practitioners to uphold integrity, diligence, and professional ethics as the foundation of a successful legal career.
Event Highlights
Fagbemi and Odeyemi spoke at the grand opening of First Bethel Solicitors, located at Olabimpe House, Mokola, Ibadan. The event was attended by senior lawyers, judges, clerics, business leaders, and other dignitaries. Notable attendees included Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN), Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo (SAN), Justice S.A. Oyediran, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, veteran broadcaster and gospel musician Yinka Ayefele, Thomas Olaotan, and numerous legal professionals.
Fagbemi's Remarks
In his address, Fagbemi emphasized that the unveiling of the new law office was more than just the opening of a physical structure; it represented vision, resilience, and commitment to the ideals of the legal profession. He noted that establishing a law firm is a significant milestone in a legal practitioner's career, bringing greater responsibility to society, justice, and the rule of law. "The legal profession remains one of the most vital pillars of democracy and good governance," he stated, adding that practitioners are custodians of justice and defenders of the constitutional order.
Fagbemi praised Odeyemi for his perseverance, courage, and commitment to excellence, expressing confidence that the new office would become a center for professional distinction, integrity, advocacy, and quality legal service delivery. He urged lawyers to remain steadfast in promoting justice, fairness, accountability, and the protection of citizens' rights, concluding that "the future of our legal system depends largely on practitioners committed not only to personal success but also to service and societal impact."
Odeyemi's Address
Odeyemi, a legal practitioner, Notary Public, Justice of the Peace, arbitrator, and mediator, explained that the new office was established to expand the firm's operations and provide a conducive environment for lawyers, interns, and law students. He stressed that integrity and trust are the foundation of legal practice, noting that lawyers who uphold these values earn public confidence and professional referrals. "You cannot go far in this profession if you lack integrity and trust," he warned, emphasizing that diligence is the only path to success.
Other Speakers
In her welcome address, Mrs. 'Delayo Adetunji-Oriekun (FCIArb) described Odeyemi as a trusted confidant and lauded his contributions to the profession, noting that a strong and independent Bar is crucial to Nigeria's administration of justice. Mutalubi Adebayo (SAN) praised Odeyemi's determination and hard work, calling the new chamber the beginning of greater accomplishments. Justice Oyediran commended his creativity and productivity, while Adenipekun (SAN) expressed confidence in his continued excellence.
Yinka Ayefele, who described Odeyemi as his longtime lawyer, stated that the legal practitioner had handled several of his corporate matters over the years, calling him "brilliant, articulate, and well versed in law." Other speakers, including Pastor L.A. Oluwasanmi, Barrister Femi Kasunmu, Mary Odeyemi, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, Justice Adeeyo, Mr. Sola Omole, Prince Adewuyi Aderibigbe, and Pastor Yemi Bello (JP), lauded Odeyemi's integrity, humility, diligence, and commitment to excellence. They described the new edifice as a product of years of hard work and dedication to justice, expressing optimism that First Bethel Solicitors would make significant contributions to legal practice and access to justice in Nigeria.
