A public lecture was held at the Body of Benchers Building in Abuja to celebrate Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, on his 80th birthday. The event was attended by prominent Nigerians from all walks of life, including Ex-President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Mrs Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN. Renowned Journalist and Editor-in-Chief of The Cable, Mr Simon Kolawole, delivered the lecture titled: “Prioritising Ethical Conducts and Anti-Corruption Measures in Governance in Nigeria”.
Asiwaju Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, paid a tribute to Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, describing him as a two-time Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Awomolo stated that Agabi's being celebrated while still alive was a rare opportunity, noting that many eminent men do not have such a privilege. He shared his first encounter with Agabi, which was during a debate on the National Assembly's power to legislate on corruption and abuse of office.
Awomolo highlighted Agabi's significant contribution to the interpretation of the Constitution, particularly in the case of Attorney-General of Ondo State v Attorney General and Minister of Justice of the Federation & 35 Ors. He noted that Agabi's interpretation of Sections 4 and 15 of the Constitution provided the solution to the debate. The Supreme Court adopted Agabi's interpretation in its judgement delivered on 17th June, 2002.
Awomolo described Agabi as a man who believes in critical analysis of the law's purpose and the need for counsel to be professional and observe the highest ethical standards. He noted that Agabi is always humorous and ensures that the Bar and Bench work together to advance justice. Agabi's approach to justice is characterized by his insistence that every defendant deserves the mercy of God.
The tribute also highlighted Agabi's charitable acts, noting that he is always ready to sacrifice his comfort and resources for anyone, irrespective of the cost. Agabi is known to provide free accommodation for lawyers in Abuja, and his legendary charitable acts are noteworthy. His friends and colleagues have unanimously agreed that Agabi is a man of high integrity, who daily feeds the poor and does not envy or parade himself.
The event was a testament to Agabi's impact on the Nigerian legal system and his contributions to the country's governance. The lecture and tributes demonstrated the high esteem in which Agabi is held by his peers and the legal community. Agabi's legacy as a champion of justice and anti-corruption measures continues to inspire many.
Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, has left an indelible mark on the Nigerian legal system, and his 80th birthday celebration was a fitting tribute to his contributions. The event celebrated his life, achievements, and commitment to justice and anti-corruption measures. Agabi's story serves as an inspiration to many, and his legacy will continue to shape the Nigerian legal system for years to come.
Key points
- Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and NBA President Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, were among the prominent Nigerians who celebrated Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, at a public lecture in Abuja.
- Asiwaju Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, paid a tribute to Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, highlighting his contributions to the Nigerian legal system and his commitment to justice and anti-corruption measures.
- Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, is known for his charitable acts, including providing free accommodation for lawyers in Abuja, and his legendary charitable acts are noteworthy.
