The legal community and Nigeria at large are mourning the loss of Professor Jelili Adebisi Omotola (SAN), a distinguished academic and legal luminary whose contributions to the field of law and justice have left an indelible mark on generations of scholars and practitioners alike.
Professor Omotola, who passed away at the age of 78, was renowned for his pioneering work in legal education, as well as his advocacy for justice reform in Nigeria. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), he was instrumental in shaping the nation’s legal landscape, both as an educator and as a practicing lawyer.
Born in the city of Ibadan, Omotola’s academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where he earned his law degree before proceeding to further his studies abroad. His career spanned decades, with notable stints as a professor and Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Lagos. His work in academia made him a respected authority on constitutional law and legal ethics, and he mentored countless students who have gone on to achieve prominence in the legal field.
Beyond the classroom, Professor Omotola’s influence extended to Nigeria’s judicial system. His work as a legal practitioner was marked by a fierce commitment to fairness, integrity, and the rule of law. As an advocate for human rights, he was known for taking on cases that sought to challenge the status quo and protect the rights of the vulnerable.
His legacy is also tied to his role in shaping the legal profession in Nigeria through various reforms and his active involvement in national legal dialogues. His publications, many of which are widely regarded as seminal works in Nigerian jurisprudence, continue to guide both students and practitioners today.
“Professor Omotola’s impact is immeasurable. He was not only a mentor but a true champion for justice,” said Professor Nkechi Okafor, a colleague at the University of Lagos. “His contributions to legal education and practice have shaped many of the standards we uphold today.”
In his later years, Omotola remained a passionate advocate for the modernization of Nigeria’s legal system, often speaking out on issues such as judicial independence and the need for reforms in the legal education sector.
As the legal community remembers Professor Jelili Adebisi Omotola, his legacy as a teacher, advocate, and reformer continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps.
source: thisdaylive.com
