The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), alongside the founder of First Bethel Solicitors, Omoniyi Odeyemi, have called on lawyers to embrace integrity, diligence, and professional ethics as the bedrock of a successful legal career. They made this appeal during the grand opening of First Bethel Solicitors at Olabimpe House, Mokola, Ibadan.
Event Highlights
The ceremony attracted a distinguished audience, including senior lawyers, judges, clerics, business leaders, and other dignitaries. Notable attendees included Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN), Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo (SAN), Justice S.A. Oyediran, Kazeem Gbadamosi, veteran broadcaster and gospel musician Yinka Ayefele, Thomas Olaotan, and many other legal professionals.
Fagbemi's Address
Speaking at the event, Fagbemi described the unveiling of the new law office as more than just the opening of a physical structure; he said it represented vision, resilience, and commitment to the ideals of the legal profession. According to him, the establishment of the law firm marks a significant milestone in a lawyer's career because it brings greater responsibility to society, justice, and the rule of law.
“The legal profession remains one of the most vital pillars of democracy and good governance. As custodians of justice and defenders of the constitutional order, legal practitioners occupy a sacred position in nation-building,” he stated.
Fagbemi praised Odeyemi for his perseverance, courage, and commitment to excellence, expressing confidence that the new office would serve as a centre for professional distinction, integrity, advocacy, and quality legal service delivery. He urged lawyers to remain steadfast in promoting justice, fairness, accountability, and the protection of citizens' rights.
“The future of our legal system depends largely on practitioners who are committed not only to personal success but also to service and societal impact,” he added.
Odeyemi's Remarks
In his remarks, Odeyemi, a Notary Public, Justice of the Peace, arbitrator, and mediator, said the new office was established to expand the firm's operations and provide a conducive environment for lawyers, interns, and law students. He stressed that integrity and trust remain the foundation of legal practice, noting that lawyers who uphold these values earn public confidence and professional referrals.
“You cannot go far in this profession if you lack integrity and trust, because the foundation of this profession is integrity and trust. A lawyer must be diligent in his work, and that is the only way to succeed,” he said.
Other Speeches
Earlier, in her welcome address, Mrs Delayo Adetunji-Oriekun (FCIArb) described Odeyemi as a trusted confidant and lauded his contributions to the profession, noting that a strong and independent Bar remains crucial to the administration of justice in Nigeria.
Delivering goodwill messages, Mutalubi Adebayo (SAN) lauded Odeyemi's determination and hard work, describing the new chamber as the beginning of greater accomplishments. Justice Oyediran commended his creativity and productivity, while Adenipekun (SAN) expressed confidence that he would continue to excel in the profession.
Yinka Ayefele, who described Odeyemi as his longtime lawyer, said the lawyer had handled several of his corporate matters over the years. “He is brilliant, articulate and well-versed in law,” Ayefele said.
Other speakers included Pastor L.A. Oluwasanmi, Femi Kasunmu, Mary Odeyemi, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, Mr Sola Omole, Prince Adewuyi Aderibigbe, and Pastor Yemi Bello (JP). They lauded Odeyemi's integrity, humility, diligence, and commitment to excellence. They described the new edifice as a product of years of hard work and dedication to justice, while expressing optimism that First Bethel Solicitors would make significant contributions to legal practice and access to justice in the country.
