Fayemi Congratulates Falana, Akinlaja Over SAN Award

Mr Femi Falana and Mr Dayo Akinlaja

Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has hailed the emergence of  the state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Dayo Akinlaja and renowned human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana as new Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs).

Falana, a former President of the West African Bar Association (WABA) and Akinlaja are among the new SANs announced on Thursday. The duo hail from Ekiti State.

Governor Fayemi, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, said the induction of Akinlaja and Falana into the Inner Bar bears eloquent testimony to the fact that Ekiti is synonymous with excellence.

The Governor noted that the recognition of two Ekiti indigenes who have risen to the pinnacle of their chosen career as SANs is worth celebrating as it has secured a pride of place for the state in the annals of the legal profession.

He described the two new SANs as men of honour who have reached the peak of the legal profession through diligence, hard work, dedication, advocacy and commitment to a better society.

The Governor noted that the duo has used the law profession as an instrument of social change and to defend the defenceless, a development which he said is widely acknowledged within and outside the country.

While noting that Falana is long overdue for the conferment of the SAN rank, Fayemi expressed satisfaction that the renowned human rights activist has been recognized at last.

“There is no doubt that Mr Falana has been consistent in challenging bad governance, abuse of power and defending the rights of the oppressed in the country. He has used the legal profession to work for a better society. It is a honour well deserved, Fayemi said.

“Akinlaja’s emergence is a reward for hard work and commitment to the rule of law in the Land Honour.” The governor added.

The Governor also charged his chief law officer to see his new status as an opportunity to add value to governance and the administration of justice in the state.

He urged the two new SANs to continue to be good ambassadors of the State.

Last modified: July 12, 2012