The Archdeacon of Agege Archdeaconry of the Anglican Communion and Vicar of Christ Church Elere, Agege – Lagos, Ven Tunde Owoyele, has described a former high court judge, Justice Babasola Ogunade as a rare gem and uncompromising jurist.
He made the submission at a short service in Lagos to mark the 87th birthday of the retired high court judge on November 16
Ven Owoyele said at the service that Justice Ogunade “is a rare gem, a leader of leaders, an uncompromising Jurist, a firm and ever-ready man who is always on ground to assist anyone that comes his way for help.”
He further described Ogunade as a selfless human being whose life is a worthy example for all to emulate.
According to the cleric, the jurist’s life is a case study for the present generation. “His service to God and Humanity from his younger years till now is a case study for generations yet unborn. Above all, he is a committed Christian whose simplicity and spiritual wisdom are worthy of emulation.”
About Justice Ogunade
Hon. Justice Babasola Opeoluwa OGUNADE trained as a Teacher at St. Andrew’s College, Oyo. He later read law at the University of London and graduated in 1970. In 1972, he was enrolled as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and thereafter commenced his career as a Legal Practitioner, first as an associate and later partner in the Law Firm of S. M. Olakunri & CoHe practiced as a lawyer until December 1991 when he was appointed a Judge of the High Court of Ogun State. He retired in November 2001. In the course of his career as a High Court Judge, he was one of the Judges whose Courts were designated as anti-corruption courts by the I.C.P.C.
He was an active member of the Nigeria Bar Association and also a member of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association. Apart from being a successful legal practitioner, Justice Ogunade is the Chancellor of the Diocese of Lagos West, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion). He is also the chairman of the House of Laity of the Church of Nigeria.
Justice Ogunade was for many years a member of the Ogun State Law Reporting Committee both when he was a Legal Practitioner and as a Judge of the High Court of Ogun State.
Love for God
He is however more known for his service in God’s vineyard. He was actively involved in the establishment of Ajayi Crowther University.
Justice Ogunade is an active member of the Anglican Church. Apart from being the Chancellor of the Diocese of Lagos West, he is also a member of the Committee of Reference of the Church of Nigeria (Ang. Communion)
He is a member of the Standing Committee of the Church and General Synod among other committees and church-related associations.