In Nigeria, the legal profession is known for producing numerous brilliant minds who have made significant contributions. FAITH AJAYI explores the lives of couples where both partners have attained the esteemed title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
Adegboyega and Victoria Awomolo
Adegboyega Awomolo was born on September 19, 1947, in Orile-Ilugun, Abeokuta, Ogun State. He pursued his elementary education at St. James Primary School and continued his secondary education at Anglican Secondary School (modern) Orile-Ilugun. Later, he obtained his law degree from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, in 1977, and was called to the Bar on July 7, 1978.
Following his National Youth Service Corps experience in Kwara State, Awomolo joined the law office of Tunji Arosanyin & Co in Ilorin. Endeared to his heart are the legal luminaries who influenced his career, including Afe Babalola (SAN) and Chief Tunji Arosanyin, for whom he worked from 1979 to 1983.
In 1992, he was appointed Chairman of all the 44 branch Chairmen and Secretaries of the Nigerian Bar Association. Notably, he was also the first Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Osun State in 1991.
His wife, Olufunmilayo, also achieved the SAN recognition in 2013, and both work together at the law firm, Awomolo and Associates. Her expertise lies in various areas of law, including tribunal, criminal law, aviation, banking, and insurance
As the 18th female SAN, she has made significant contributions to women’s rights through her involvement with the International Federation of Women Lawyers. She has been part of crucial constitutional and election cases and has advised the Federal Government on matters concerning the oil and gas industry and fuel subsidy
Outside their professional endeavors, the Awomolos are dedicated to their community, with Adegboyega holding the prestigious titles of Asiwaju of Igbajo and Baamofin of Igbajo, while Olufunmilayo is the Yeyemofin of Igbajoland.
Femi and Funmi Falana
The renowned human rights activist, Femi Falana, was called to the Bar in 1982 and achieved the SAN title 30 years later in 2012. He endured numerous encounters and detentions due to his advocacy for human rights, particularly during the military regime.
In 1991, he established his chambers, known today as Falana and Falana Chambers, alongside his wife, Funmi. They both engage in various professional and leadership organizations, advocating for human rights and legal representation.
Funmi’s remarkable career led to her appointment as a SAN in 2023. She has been actively involved in women’s and children’s rights advocacy through her role as the National Director of Women Empowerment and Legal Aid.
Embarking on a journey of academic and administrative accomplishments, Epiphany Azinge, a native of Oshi¬mili South Local Government Area, Delta State, became a SAN in 2006. He has dedicated himself to legal education and community development activities through his foundation, the Sojourners Medicate Foundation, which provides support to accident victims and scholarships to indigent individuals.
Valerie Azinge, also a SAN, has held several political offices and actively advocates for the rights of women and children. She co-founded the Azinge and Azinge Law firm with her husband and has received national honors for her contributions to the legal profession and community.
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