FromAdesoji Oyinlola, Lagos
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) on Thursday held a special valedictory session in honour of late human rights lawyer and activist, Mr. Bamidele Aturu, who died on July 9 in Lagos after a brief illness.
The programme, which took place at the NBA secretariat in Ikeja was attended by senior members of the bench and bar as well as other dignitaries.
In his speech, the Chairman, NBA, Ikeja branch, Mr. Yinka Farounbi, described the event as historic because it was the first time it was being held in honour of any lawyer.
Farounbi said Aturu was a committed member of the branch and served in various capacities during his short life time on earth.
He said the branch would immortalise Aturu with an annual programme to be held in his honour, adding that the late lawyer was a big loss to the legal community.
Also speaking, Mr Alex Mouka, Chairman, NBA Lagos branch, said Aturu was never afraid to speak up against any form of injustice in the society and devoted his life to that cause.
The Chairman of the Ikorodu branch, Mr Dotun Adetunji, said Aturu made a great impact in the country with his activism.
“He was a genuine activist who participated in all forms of action aimed at social reform and change,” Adetunji said.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Rickey Tarfa, while commiserating with the family, enjoined them to be proud of the legacy left behind by the deceased.
On his part, Justice Olubunmi Oyewole of the Court of Appeal, Benue Division, said Aturu employed the instrumentality of the law in his quest for social reform and change.
Speaking on behalf of the Aturu family, the eldest son of the deceased, Lanre, thanked Nigerians for the support and shown to them since the demise of their father.
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