Melaye tasks youths on resilience as former OOU Union President called to bar

Senator Dino Melaye has urged Nigerian youths to be steadfast and focused without allowing their current challenges to discourage them from pursuing their dreams in life. 

Speaking in Abuja recently, at the call to bar party organised to celebrate the birthday and call to bar of a former Olabisi Onabanjo University Students’ Union President and a leading political figure in Ogun State, Uthman Tayo Rufai, Melaye said a person’s background should not determine his or her future.

Also in attendance to felicitate with the new wig are Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu-Kensington, Ogun State governorship candidate of PDP for the 2027 general election; Hon. Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on National Planning; Rt. Hon Adekoya Adesegun Abdel-Majid, Deputy Minority Whip of Federal House of Representatives l in the 9th Assembly; and Otunba Segun Sowunmi, the convener of The Alternative.

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Senator Melaye, whose keynote address at the event centered on the inspiring journey of Barrister Rufai Uthman Beeko, described the new wig as a symbol of resilience, determination, and purpose. He recounted how a heartfelt letter from Beeko deeply moved him, revealing how his own life had inspired the celebrant’s journey. 

Melaye praised Beeko’s remarkable transition from studying Geography to returning to school nearly two decades later to earn a Law degree, complete Law School, and be called to the Nigerian Bar on his 40th birthday while also unveiling his law chamber. 

Using Beeko’s story as a lesson, Melaye stressed that a person’s background should never determine their future. He encouraged young Nigerians not to allow hardship, delayed success, or systemic challenges to define them, emphasizing that perseverance, faith, and relentless determination can overcome obstacles. Drawing from both Beeko’s and his own experiences, he said resilience is often the key to fulfilling destiny despite life’s setbacks. 

Addressing the new lawyer directly, Melaye reminded Beeko that the legal profession is a calling built on integrity, courage and service rather than personal gain. He urged him to become a defender of justice, especially for the poor and vulnerable, and to uphold honesty even when compromise appears easier. He also described the law chamber as a sanctuary of justice that should inspire confidence, fairness, and hope for all who seek legal redress. 

In concluding, the former senator said the celebration’s theme, “Forty, Called, and Commissioned: A Testament to Perseverance and Possibility,” reflects the truth that success is not determined by age but by purpose and God’s timing. He challenged lawyers and young Nigerians to become agents of national transformation through integrity, justice, and service. Congratulating Barrister Beeko on his call to bar, 40th birthday, and the unveiling of his law chamber, Melaye expressed confidence that his journey would inspire others and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s legal profession and national development.

Also, speaking at the event, a traditional ruler, Oba Olusegun Ogunye, the Ojotomoro of Abigi, land in Ogun State, described the celebrant as one young man who believed so much in humanity and service to the nation.  

“The young man in whose honour we all gather today is one of the illustrious sons from my community, and he has consistently made us proud. Talk of a young man who loves his community and has the capacity to provide quality leadership, and Rufai’s name will come to mind. As a legal practitioner, I’m not in doubt that he will adhere strictly to the rule of professional engagement as well as using the instrument of law to impact society positively.” Oba Ogunye said.

Responding to the torrent of tributes showered on him by family members, friends, and associates, Uthman said he has always believed that there’s nothing impossible for a determined mind. He pointed out that his decision to return to school after his masters programme stemmed from his conviction that Law is one of the appropriate tools needed to lift and impact society. He thanked his political leaders, family members and friends who stood by him while pursuing the programme. In particular, the celebrant commended his mother, whom he described as ‘role model’ for his motherly care and support over the years.