The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Senior Advocates of Nigeria, legal practitioners, and prominent guests on Saturday graced the grand opening of First Bethel Solicitors, Olabimpe House, Mokola, Ibadan, describing the development as a significant boost to legal practice and access to justice in Nigeria.
The chamber is owned by a legal luminary, Asiwaju Omoniyi Odeyemi.
The event attracted leading figures in the legal profession, including Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN), Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo (SAN), Justice S.A. Oludiran, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, alongside gospel musician, Yinka Ayefele, and other dignitaries from different sectors.
In her welcome address, Mrs. ‘Delayo Adetunji-Oriekun (FCIArb) commended the guests for their presence, describing the establishment of the law firm as a reflection of resilience, professionalism and commitment to the legal profession. She stressed that a strong and independent bar remains central to Nigeria’s justice system.
Delivering goodwill messages, Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo (SAN) praised the principal partner of the firm for his tenacity and determination, noting that the new chamber marked “the beginning of greater things to come.” Justice Oludiran also commended the creativity and productivity behind the expansion.
Adenipekun (SAN), in his remarks, simply said: “You will continue to do well,” while Ayefele, who described the principal partner as his longtime lawyer, lauded his brilliance and consistency in handling his legal matters.
Pastor L.A. Oluwasanmi and other speakers also highlighted the resilience, focus and integrity of the founder, praying for continued progress and divine uplift.
Speaking on behalf of the chamber, Barrister Femi Kasunmu described the principal partner as a pillar of support who encouraged him to remain in Ibadan, adding that he is research-oriented and committed to professional excellence.
Also speaking, Mary Odeyemi described the new edifice as a product of years of dedication to justice, adding that the founder is “a man of integrity and a goal-getter,” while Prince Adewuyi Aderibigbe and Justice Adeeyo commended his diligence, energy and legal knowledge.
In his remarks, Pastor Yemi Bello [JP] said the legal practitioner had been a positive influence in his life, while Sola Omole described him as reliable and trustworthy, noting that “once he is with you, nothing will sway him.”
The principal partner of the firm, Asiwaju Omoniyi Odeyemi, said the establishment of the new office was driven by the need for expansion and improved service delivery.
He explained that the former office space had become inadequate, necessitating a larger facility capable of accommodating lawyers, interns from the Nigerian Law School, and law students.
According to him, integrity remains the foundation of legal practice, stressing that lawyers who uphold trust and diligence naturally attract referrals, especially in a profession where advertising is restricted.
“The legal profession is built on integrity and trust. You cannot go far without them. Diligence is what sustains practice, and that is what we have built our firm on,” he said.
Delivering his keynote remarks, Fagbemi (SAN) described the event as more than the unveiling of a physical structure, but a celebration of vision, resilience and professional commitment to the ideals of the legal profession.
He said the law remains one of the most vital pillars of democracy, with practitioners serving as custodians of justice and defenders of the constitutional order.
Fagbemi commended the founder for his perseverance and dedication, expressing confidence that the new chamber would contribute meaningfully to legal practice and access to justice in Nigeria.
“I have no doubt that this office will serve as a centre of professional distinction, integrity and quality legal service delivery,” he said.
He urged legal practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession and remain committed to justice, fairness and accountability, noting that the future of Nigeria’s legal system depends on practitioners who prioritise service to society.
The AGF congratulated the founder, his family, colleagues and associates on the milestone, praying for continued growth and success of the new law office.
