Olanipekun hails Oke at 70, describes him as legal icon

Wole Olanipekun, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has paid glowing tribute to Olusola Alexander Oke on the occasion of his 70th birthday.

He described him as a “quintessential legal virtuoso” and a towering figure in Nigeria’s legal landscape.

In a statement commemorating the milestone, Olanipekun said Oke’s attainment of 70 years was not merely a function of age, but a reflection of a life of impact and enduring relevance.

He noted that the celebrant’s journey through the legal profession and public life stands as a testament to the triumph of discipline, perseverance, and divine purpose.

“I heartily felicitate with Olusola Alexander Oke, SAN, on this auspicious celebration of his 70th birthday anniversary, not as one who has merely counted years, but as one whose years have counted and continue to count,” Olanipekun stated.

He likened Oke’s rise in the legal profession to the “ancient Cedars of Lebanon, rooted in depth, yet flourishing in splendour,” highlighting his achievements as a law firm founder, mentor to younger practitioners, and a respected figure who has contributed significantly to the development of jurisprudence in Nigeria.

According to Olanipekun, Oke’s career reflects a rare blend of intellectual depth and human sensitivity, forged through personal struggles and professional triumphs.

He said the senior lawyer’s ability to endure hardship and remain steadfast in pursuit of excellence has given him a unique appreciation of societal challenges and a deep connection with the people.

The tribute also offered rare insight into a defining moment in Oke’s career trajectory.

Olanipekun disclosed that he once advised Oke to prioritise attaining the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) before fully committing to politics, a counsel he said proved pivotal.

“I admonished him that by the time he rose to the peak of his profession, he would become a more respectable figure whom politicians and the electorate alike would not only defer to, but also revere, knowing full well that he had a second address,” he said.

He revealed that Oke accepted the advice with humility and determination, setting a clear goal to achieve the rank.

When the time came to apply for the coveted Silk, Olanipekun said Oke requested him to serve as a referee, a role he gladly undertook.

Significantly, Olanipekun noted that the advice was given at a difficult period in Oke’s life, shortly after his unsuccessful bid for the governorship of Ondo State.

Oke had contested the outcome of the election up to the Supreme Court but did not succeed.

Despite the circumstances, Olanipekun, who served as counsel to Oke’s opponent, Olusegun Rahman Mimiko, former Ondo state governor said the celebrant embraced his guidance without resentment.

“Others in his position would have frowned at my advice, considering the time and circumstances, but this gentleman embraced it and profoundly appreciated me,” he said, describing Oke as a man of honour and a true ‘Omoluabi’.

Olanipekun further commended Oke’s humility and consistency in acknowledging the role the advice played in his eventual elevation to the rank of SAN, noting that he has continued to express gratitude over the years.

He added that beyond his professional accomplishments, Oke has distinguished himself through mentorship, integrity, and a commitment to nurturing the next generation of legal practitioners.

“As we celebrate this milestone with this beloved friend and cherished ally, we recognise a life that has been deliberately shaped by purpose and guided by grace,” Olanipekun said.

He added with prayers for continued strength and relevance for the septuagenarian, expressing hope that the years ahead would be even more impactful.

“May your twilight glow with even greater radiance than your dawn, and may your legacy endure as an eternal anthem of grace, resilience, and divine purpose,” he added.